Please enjoy Rabbi Abram's Rosh Hashanah sermon "The Costs of Freedom"

Rabbi Abram and Heather Barbour's ADN Opinion article

Below is an opinion piece that Rabbi Abram Goodstein jointly wrote with Heather Barbour of the Islamic Community Center of Anchorage:

Over the past couple of decades there have been many adversities faced by both the Muslim and Jewish Communities in Anchorage. Because of these adversities, many bridges were built between the various communities, including the Interfaith community. We are able to appreciate the humanity that binds us together, and it is vital that this humanity is not forgotten.

The diversity we have in Anchorage is beautiful, and it is our strength. It can serve as an example to other communities who struggle with bigotry and hate. The communities of Congregation Beth Sholom and Islamic Community Center of Anchorage have a deep bond - we have a mutual respect and a genuine affection for each other. Despite current world events, we have always supported each other in times of need. When there is an anti-Semitic attack, Anchorage Muslims come to Beth Sholom in solidarity. When there is an anti-Islamic attack, Anchorage Jews come to the mosque for support.

The Israel-Hamas conflict has been a flash point for so many people. For the Jewish community, many Jews believe that Israel has a right to exist as a Jewish homeland and many Jews also abhor violence of any kind. Within this conflict these values clash. The terrorist attacks on October 7^th against innocent Israelis is abhorrent. And the death of over 17,000 innocent Palestinians is also abhorrent. There was a glimmer of hope that the conflict was coming to an end with a ceasefire to exchange hostages, but that glimmer died with the end of the ceasefire. We are plunged back into a historic and complex conflict in which even its start is a source of disagreement.

Many Palestinians and supporters of Palestine hold views and values that mirror those of many Jews. The desire for peace and abhorrence of violence is what drives Palestinians as well. October 7 was a shock to everyone. Many people, on both sides, have very conflicting emotions concerning the events of that day, and the aftermath that has followed. It is not black and white, and it is not simple. Many support resistance to the occupation. On the other hand, many cannot condone violence against innocent people. Our hearts break for every innocent Israeli who lost their life on October 7, and they break equally for each innocent Palestinian who has lost their life since. One life is not more or less precious than the other.

While many people have lots to say about this conflict, and spirited debate is a time honored tradition in our country, we would like Alaskans to consider the damage that occurs when these conversations go too far. This conflict has drastically increased Islamophobia and Anti-Semitism right here in the United States. The ecosystem of hate is its own historic and complex problem in our country. Charged rhetoric generated by the Israel-Hamas war in social media and news coverage has escalated hate against Jews, Muslims, and Arabs. There are those whose violent views had previously been restrained by a society that does not tolerate hateful expressions in public. We rely on common courtesy and human decency to carry on with our lives without fear of being targeted due to our religion. The rhetoric around the Hamas-Israel war has eroded both common courtesy and human decency.

Misinformation, overzealous rhetoric, and fear mongering in public discourse have energized and enabled violent individuals. Certain people have become so hardened that they no longer even see Jews or Muslims as human beings. Both Muslims and Jews are terrified of finding themselves in a situation with these people, where these violent individuals feel they can act out their hate in public. So while we discuss how best to support both Palestinians and Israelis during their time of need, we encourage you to recognize that your words may have a power far beyond their intent.

Again in a time of adversity, Anchorage Jews and Muslims have come together in solidarity to ask the general population for civility and kindness. Hatred and violence against innocent people can never be justified. It does not make the world a better place. What does make the world a better place is holding up the virtues of peace, kindness and compassion, and supporting communities who are in need.

CBS offers these organizations for consideration of your support:

Jewish Federation of North America is working with their core partners to support victims of terror, help rebuild damaged infrastructure, and address the unprecedented levels of trauma caused by the recent horrific attack.

Doctors without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is actively working on preparing medical and humanitarian supplies to be sent to Gaza and they are reiterating calls for the delivery of urgently needed humanitarian aid.

Anera, which has no political or religious affiliation, works on the ground with partners in Palestine (West Bank and Gaza), Lebanon and Jordan. Currently they are focused on delivering food and hygiene kits in Gaza, helping families displaced by the war.

Magen David Adom is working to put more ambulances on the road and to replenish supplies for paramedics.

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Voices of Compassion: CBS's Response to a World in Crisis

Like so many of you, we have spent much of the last several days searching for language to describe and respond to the new reality in which we find ourselves. So many of us have been reaching out, wondering what to think, what to say, what to do.

Sadly, we know we are only at the beginning of a very long, difficult, and uncertain road. A road that will make new demands of all of us as members of the Jewish community. Heartbreakingly, it is also a road riddled with the risk of communal rupture and fragmentation.

We want to share some thoughts on what we believe this terribly dark hour is asking of us. Here is how many of us at CBS are processing this information:

We are allowing ourselves to be at a loss for words. The speechlessness that we feel in the face of what we have witnessed is a sign of humanity and of humility.

We are listening to the moral voice within us that knows there is no context, no intellectual contortion that can possibly justify Hamas’ acts of terror. These are acts that deserve nothing but our unequivocal condemnation.

We are letting ourselves be uncertain about what Israel should do next in this impossibly painful and frightening moment. Many of us understandably feel a growing sense of urgency as conditions worsen in Gaza and we fear an even more severe humanitarian crisis. We trust that every member of this community longs desperately to do what is possible to prevent further suffering and death of innocent lives, both Palestinian and Israeli.

We support people raising concern, mourning, expressing sadness, or horror about the loss of life in Gaza. We are not equating concern for Palestinian suffering and the loss of innocent Palestinian lives with betrayal of the Jewish people. We are not allowing the inhumanity of Hamas to strip us of our basic humanity. The human tragedy there is overwhelming.

CBS is a place where we honor diversity and as such we are of many different thoughts and opinions about this conflict. We are mourning and everyone mourns differently. Let us exercise some compassion and forgiveness for those of us who are reacting differently to this horrifying situation.

We are feeling grief, fear, loneliness, and pain. Let's acknowledge that about ourselves and about others around us: let's allow ourselves to experience every emotion that arises, but let's also try not to dwell on it too much. Instead, may we focus on actions and activities that are aimed at doing good and are spiritually uplifting. Let's come together as Jews, as people of conscience, and as members of CBS. As Reb Zalman (Z”L) said: “the only way to get it together is to get together.”

Sending compassion and strength to everyone in our community along with a prayer for healing and peace.

If you are so inclined we encourage you to support the region with your financial resources. There are many options to choose from and we urge diligence in researching how best to give. We are highlighting the following organizations:

Jewish Federation of North America is working with their core partners to support victims of terror, help rebuild damaged infrastructure, and address the unprecedented levels of trauma caused by the recent horrific attack.

Doctors without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is actively working on preparing medical and humanitarian supplies to be sent to Gaza and they are reiterating calls for the delivery of urgently needed humanitarian aid.

Anera, which has no political or religious affiliation, works on the ground with partners in Palestine (West Bank and Gaza), Lebanon and Jordan. Currently they are focused on delivering food and hygiene kits in Gaza, helping families displaced by the war.

Magen David Adom is working to put more ambulances on the road and to replenish supplies for paramedics

Thank you Governor for showing your unwavering support for Israel.

Thank you Senator Murkowski for your staunch defense in support of Israel.

Thank you Senator Sullivan for your incredible support of Israel.

Welcome to the largest Jewish Congregation in Alaska

Congregation Beth Sholom welcomes all visitors who wish to worship with us. We are a progressive congregation affiliated with Reform Judaism and are proud to be of service to those from diverse Jewish backgrounds. Please visit our About Us page for a detailed description of our values.

Our facilities are located in a peaceful, natural setting to enhance your spiritual experience. While our in-person services are limited, you can always watch livestream services on our YouTube channel: Alaska Judaism Media.

A message from Rabbi Abram Goodstein

Letter: Antisemitism on the rise

By Abram Goodstein

The attack on Israel is a devastating blow for the Jewish people across the world. Not only was it planned a day after the 50th anniversary of the Yom Kippur War, but it was also timed during the Jewish Holiday of Simchat Torah. A day that is supposed to be full of celebration as we honor the Torah scrolls in our community.

These recent events highlight a consistent theme of Jewish life: Holy days and celebrations have become desecrated by violence. They become characterized by apprehension for the safety of our community and loved ones.

This attack caps what has been an incredibly difficult year for the Jewish people. The Anti-Defamation League announced that 2022 was the highest year on record for antisemitic incidents in our country, a 36% increase from 2021. If that isn’t bad enough, news has just broke that the genetic testing company 23andMe was hacked, and a million Ashkenazi Jews’ genetic and personal information was released to the internet by the hackers.

If you are wondering if there is anything you can do, there is. In the U.S., Judaism, like all religions, is protected by the First Amendment. And in Anchorage, Judaism, alongside all other religions is protected by Title 5. The First Amendment and Title 5 should have every person’s unwavering support. These pieces of legislation offer marginalized groups and minorities protections that most people take for granted. Celebrating and upholding these laws goes a long way to supporting vulnerable members of our community.

But there is still more to do. If you encounter people who profess hate or ignorance towards the Jewish people, then speak up. Counter-speech is one of the most effective forms of preventing antisemitism. Letting people say hateful things without countering them enables their behavior. Public discourse should be respectful and civil. Whether you are Jewish or not, you should not let people speaking ill of others go unchecked.

In our tradition, we sing a song called ‘Oseh Shalom.’ In this song is a prayer that states, “May the one makes peace in the heavens make peace for us, all Israel and all who inhabit the Earth. Amen.”

— Rabbi Abram Goodstein

Congregation Beth Sholom

Prayer for Healing

Our G-d, and the G-d of our ancestors,
Within our community, hatred has scarred our souls.
Our sacred space has been violated, shaken to its core.

In our vulnerability, we find strength,
Uniting to bolster one another,
Gratefully accepting the support from loving hearts with humility.

From our fear, let compassion flourish,
Preventing our actions from being tainted by dread,
Instead, we strive for justice, not vengeance, peace, not more bloodshed.

In our anger, may wisdom prevail,
For an attack against us is an affront to all,
Binding us together with those facing similar oppression and malice.

Through our brokenness, may healing mend our spirits,
Elevating us from this trial with renewed vitality, devotion, and connection.

God of our ancestors, in the face of violence and hatred,
We reaffirm our commitment to be shearit Israel, the remnant of Israel,

Guardians of Your sacred teachings and traditions,
Pursuers of righteousness and compassion,

Champions of justice and mercy,
Ambassadors of peace and understanding,
Bearers of love and friendship.

May those who seek harm be confounded,
And those who seek good be uplifted.

May Your peace envelop us and all who dwell on this Earth.
And together, we say, Amen.

-Written by An Anonymous CBS Congregant

Congregation Beth Sholom

Congregation Beth Sholom is a diverse and inclusive Jewish community, welcoming people of all ages, backgrounds, family structures, and worship styles.

Join Us

Buy a book. Give a gift.

CBS has a goal to receive 25 copies of The Torah: A Women's Commentary. Your generous gift adds modern and unique perspectives to the study of Torah at CBS. As an inclusive-inspired Congregation, CBS strives to provide literary content accessible to all. Won't you participate in this great opportunity?

Books can be purchased through the CCAR Press link below.

Mailing address for the book order:
Congregation Beth Sholom 7525 East Northern Lights Blvd Anchorage, AK 99504

Click Here To Go To CCAR Press

Click Here to See Other Great Books For Your Home

Volunteer Opportunities

Want to make a difference?
Don't have much time?
Ready to join a committee?

This Community works because it is run by its members. Your participation expands Jewish thought, programming, education, and community throughout Alaska., and beyond?

Take a look at some of our current opportunities and if there is something you see needs doing, feel free to reach out to Rabbi Abram or Stacey Saunders, our Congregation President.

Library Committee
Food Bank
Social Action Committee
Website
Multimedia Committee (photography, videos, live-streaming, social media, website)
Gemilut Chasadim (Loving Kindness outreach committee)
many more opportunities; let us know your ideas and skills! There's room for everyone at every age.

Click here for more opportunities

Make a Donation

Congregation Beth Sholom operates on the goodwill of our members and the community. We welcome your generous donations.

Here are a few ways you can help.

Support our Shabbat Live-stream in memory or in honor of a special person or occasion, or simply to share the joy of Shabbat with the community.
Rabbi's Discretionary Fund
Jewish Education Center (JEC)
Scholarship Fund
Planned Giving

Click Here to make a donation

Services Online

Sun	Mon	Tues	Wed	Thu	Fri	Sat
1Cheshvan 30	2Kislev 1	3Kislev 2	4Kislev 3 8:30am Midweek Morning Minyan (Zoom)	5Kislev 4 8:30am Midweek Morning Minyan in person	6Kislev 5 3:30pm Candle Lighting 6:00pm Friday Evening Shabbat Service (YouTube Live)	7Kislev 6 Vayeitzei 10:30am Shabbat Morning Text Study 4:33pm Havdalah
8Kislev 7	9Kislev 8	10Kislev 9	11Kislev 10 8:30am Midweek Morning Minyan (Zoom)	12Kislev 11 8:30am Midweek Morning Minyan in person	13Kislev 12 3:26pm Candle Lighting 6:00pm Friday Evening Shabbat Service (YouTube Live)	14Kislev 13 Vayishlach 10:30am Shabbat Morning Text Study 4:30pm Havdalah
15Kislev 14	16Kislev 15	17Kislev 16	18Kislev 17 8:30am Midweek Morning Minyan (Zoom) 7:00pm CBS Board Meetings (Call to confirm)	19Kislev 18 8:30am Midweek Morning Minyan in person	20Kislev 19 3:27pm Candle Lighting 6:00pm Friday Evening Shabbat Service (YouTube Live)	21Kislev 20 Vayeishev 10:30am Shabbat Morning Text Study 4:31pm Havdalah
22Kislev 21	23Kislev 22	24Kislev 23	25Kislev 24 Erev Hanukkah Christmas Day 8:30am Midweek Morning Minyan (Zoom)	26Kislev 25 Hanukkah 8:30am Midweek Morning Minyan in person	27Kislev 26 Hanukkah 3:33pm Candle Lighting 6:00pm Friday Evening Shabbat Service (YouTube Live)	28Kislev 27 Hanukkah Mikeitz 10:30am Shabbat Morning Text Study 1:00pm Religious School for adults 4:38pm Havdalah
29Kislev 28 Hanukkah	30Kislev 29 Hanukkah	31Kislev 30 Hanukkah	1Tevet 1 Hanukkah New Year's Day 8:30am Midweek Morning Minyan (Zoom)	2Tevet 2 Hanukkah 8:30am Midweek Morning Minyan in person	3Tevet 3 3:42pm Candle Lighting 6:00pm Friday Evening Shabbat Service (YouTube Live)	4Tevet 4 Vayigash 10:30am Shabbat Morning Text Study 4:48pm Havdalah

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