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FRIDAY MAR 13, 2026
SHABBAT HACHODESH
PARASHAT: Vayachel - Pekudeh
CANDLE LIGHTING: 6:41 pm
SHABBAT ENDS:7:51 pm
PRAYER TIMES
Support UMJCA Yeshiva Scholarship Fund
The Mashadi community is built on unity, tradition, and the responsibility to uplift one another. Today, we have a powerful opportunity to come together and make a lasting impact. This year, we are raising $800,000 through the UMJCA Yeshiva Scholarship Fund to help support over 350 Mashadi boys and girls in receiving a strong Jewish education and continuing the traditions of our community. All donations are fully matched, doubling the impact of every contribution. Please open your hearts and give generously—every dollar makes a difference. Donate here:
http://Causematch.com/umjca2026
Clothing Drive – Sun, Mar 15
UMJCA Sisterhood, in conjunction with Yad Leah, will have their clothing drive on Sunday March 15th.  10am-2pm in the Shaare Shalom Parking Lot.  For More information please contact Arezou Tolou 516-426-7048
CLICK HERE FOR FLYER AND MORE INFO  
List of Products for Pesach 5786/2026 and a Guide to Pesach
-  List of Products for Pesach 5786/2026
Compiled by Rabbi Moshe Aziz on behalf of the Religious Council
- A Guide to Pesach
By Rabbi Mosheh Aziz and Rabbi Eliyahu Ebrani
CLICK HERE
Shaare Shalom Shabbat Speaker:
Doron Hakimian
Submitted By Hertzl Cohanpour
Tefillin, Mezuzah and Shatnez Checking + Matza For Sale at Shaare Shalom (54)
Join us this Sunday, April 15th from 10:00 am to 1:00pm at Shaare Shalom for professional checking services. Matza will be available for sale starting at 8:30am.
For more information, please contact: Adam Liviem, Morris Aziz, Yosi Namdar or R’ Michael Livi. 
Selling of Chametz Form
You must submit this form by Monday night March 30TH.
You can download a PDF on online HERE
To fill out our Google Forms please CLICK HERE: https://forms.gle/of8WLMyC5EoWxXk19 .
Contact Rabbi Mosheh Aziz for more information.
Torah Dedication Ceremony
The LeVian family warmly invites the community to join a Torah Dedication Ceremony in loving memory of Abdulrahim Ephraim LeVian z”l, Pary Yafa LeVian z”l, Dr. Moussa Moshe Rajabzadeh Hakimi z”l, and Lawrence (Larry) Yehuda LeVian z”l. Thursday, March 19, 2026 - Shaare Shalom Synagogue – Great Neck. Shacharit 7:25 am. Torah Dedication & Breakfast 8:30–11:00 am. All who wish to participate in this special mitzvah and honor their memories are warmly welcome.
CLICK HERE FOR FLYER AND MORE INFO  
IT'S BACK!!! Seuda Shelishit @ Shaare Rachamim
A special Evening with Rabbi Bitton. Shaare Rachamim invites all men to come and enjoy Seudah Shelishi again. Shabbat afternoon following Mincha. Special Guest Speakers: R. Jacob Bitton
Sefirat HaOmer WhatsApp Reminder
If you are interested to subscribe to a Sefirat HaOmer WhatsApp Reminder.
No reminders will be sent on Erev Shabbat or Erev Chag. This service is free. Sponsorships available (charity of your choice).
https://chat.whatsapp.com/ExMjPSsK34O5UQQIJhMDuS
Submitted by Mikael Kavian
A TASTE OF TORAH
Ladies, please join us this Shabbat for A TASTE OF TORAH, with Rabbanit Coty Bitton and featuring this week: Parashat Vayakhel with special guest speaker Nataly Cohen. Doors open at 12:15 pm, downstairs Beit Midrash.
CLICK HERE FOR FLYER AND MORE INFO  
FEATURED KOSHER FOR PASSOVER Spirits & Liqueurs 2026
CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL LIST
Israel Talk with Rabbi Bitton returns this week!
Join us in the Main Sanctuary after Musaf at 12:15 pm. 
CLICK HERE FOR FLYER AND MORE INFO  
SHAARE SHALOM ANNOUNCEMENT
Pesach Preparations – Geniza & Chametz Notice
As Pesach cleaning begins and preparations are underway, we understand that many community members will have sefarim, siddurim, and other Judaic materials requiring proper Geniza. Shaare Shalom is here to assist. We kindly request that all items be properly bagged or boxed, clearly labeled “Geniza,” and dropped off at the Security Office.
IMPORTANT UPDATES: CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL ANNOUNCEMENT
Passover Rice Information 2026
As per phone conversations with rice importers, Rabbi Eliyahu Ben Haiim has confirmed that the following brands of rice are 100% pure, no additives, or preservatives, or vitamins. Therefore, they are suitable for use for Passover. The following brands are: Colbeh – Deer – Dunar - Dunar Brown – Empire – Khazana – Kohinoor - Lal Qilla – Lior – Paras – Preema – Royal – Saffron – Shahenshah - Shahenshah Gold – Tilda – Zebra.  According to tradition, rice should be checked three times to ensure that no grains were accidentally mixed in. Rabbi Ben Haiim advised that since today's rice is very clean, the rice can be checked one time very thoroughly. Please avoid using any enriched rice. For questions, contact your local Rabbi. Chag Kasher Vesameach .Submitted by Mojgan Liviem
Mikra’ei Kodesh 2026 sponsorships are now open
Dedicate a publication for a yahrzeit, simcha, or in honor of someone special, and be part of spreading Torah all year. Limited cover dates remain — first come, first served. To reserve, contact Shawn Aziz at 516-423-6231.
CLICK HERE FOR FLYER AND MORE INFO 
 
Mashadi Heritage Corner 
DO YOU RECOGNIZE ANY OF THEM?
If not, can you show to your Parents or Grandparents? Tag or comment below by reference number! We will gather the names and publish it in two weeks. TO FIND OUT THE NAMES OF PREVIOUS HERITAGE CORNER POSTS AND TO SEND YOUR YOUR REPLIES PLEASE GO TO: https://www.facebook.com/yehudi.mashadi  OR
https://www.facebook.com/kanissanews
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE PICTURE 
Business Consulting by Angel Fund
Mission Statement: Business Consulting by Angel Fund, a committee under the non-profit organization Angel Fund by UMJCA, is dedicated to empowering new and existing entrepreneurs through dependable, professional, and community-focused guidance. Our mission is to offer clear, practical, and strategic business advice to individuals seeking to:
• Start a new business
• Modify or restructure an existing business
• Improve or grow their current business operations
We strive to provide entrepreneurs with the knowledge, support, and confidence they need to make informed decisions and succeed in their ventures.
Program Timing:  The Business Consulting program will operate once a month, offering 2 hours of dedicated consulting time. During this period, individual time slots will be allotted to participating entrepreneurs to ensure personalized attention and meaningful guidance. Further scheduling and sign-up details will be provided in advance of each monthly session.
To Contact the Business Consulting Team,  please email to Angelfundbusiness@gmail.com
PROTECT OUR COMMUNITY BECOME A VOLUNTEER GUARD
SIGN UP FOR SHABBAT & HOLIDAY SECURITY
The UMJCA is strengthening our security and we are asking for your help on Shabbats and Holidays. Unarmed volunteers will assist professional security by recognizing familiar community members and helping prevent unauthorized individuals from entering our buildings. Each shift earns a raffle entry. One winner from each synagogue will receive two round trip tickets to Israel. Sign up here: https://calendly.com/umjcavolunteerguards
CLICK HERE FOR FLYER AND MORE INFO  
EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION OPENING FOR CAMP MJC!!
It’s time to register your children from grades K-6 for another exciting, active and fun-filled summer at Camp MJC. Registration will open January 13, with early bird rates in effect until February 1. Please visit http://www.CampMJC.org for more information. Email iinfo@campmjc.org with any questions. To inquire about our partial financial assistance program, please email aid@campmjc
Discovery 2026 Pre-Registration Form
Dates: Wed June 28, 2026 to Wed Jul 19, 2026
The MYC has partnered with NCSY for this year’s Israel Discovery Trip.
Please Register using the attach link.
Link to complete registration will be sent from NCSY to all those who complete our preregistration shortly hereafter. (Participants must start application with the attach Link)
If you have any questions, please contact Simon at: Ebrani@gmail.com Cell: 516-244-0115 Yosi Nassimi at Yosi@esyny.com Cell: 516-850-8750 or Joe Kamali Joekamali@gmail.com Cell 516-659-3881. This trip is only for incoming high school seniors. This trip is Open only to UMJCA Members.
LIMITED SPACE DUE TO FLIGHT AVAILABILITY.
Click Here for the 2026 Pre-Registration Form
 
SHAARE SHALOM JUDAICA
Open to all community members: Persian, Hebrew, and English books now available at deep discounts, including Tanachs, siddurim, and variety of educational books. You are invited to take what you’d like and simply Venmo the payment on spot.
For a brief overview, please watch our SHORT VIDEO PRESENTATION:  https://www.youtube.com/shorts/LojFoD2uMGM
For additional information, please contact Farshid Liviem.
MESA Afterschool Activities Schedule 
Our new afterschool activities schedule is now up and running, offering everything from woodworking and Persian classes to chess and baking. For details, please contact the office at (516) 613.4422.
CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL AFTER SCHOOL SCHEDULE  
UMJCA Programs Spring 2026 Online Registration
Registration will open online on Wednesday, December 17th at 10am! Please register at https://programs.mashadi.org – Art – Basketball – Gymnastics - Lego Engineering – Soccer. 
For more information please email avital@mashadi.org
CLICK HERE FOR FLYER AND MORE INFO  
Ohr Esther Committee Sign Up
The Ohr Esther Board of Directors is looking for individuals who would like to be part of the various committees within the Ohr Esther Synagogue. Please express which committee(s) you would be interested in being a part of - we welcome all involvement from the congregants and urge all to participate and volunteer to the best of their abilities!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdQkKk9A_hl7vATBWHyo04fkqnFNTuz9b3wvBtMBvKIU5RbTg/viewform
Tuesday Night Gemara with Rabbi Adam Sabzevari! 
Join Tuesday Night Gemara with Rabbi Adam Sabzevari! We’re launching the 5th perek of Masechet Berachot - the perfect moment to join from the start. Open to all men, all levels: no background needed, just come ready to learn step-by-step with clarity and real-life relevance. Shaare Rachamim or on Zoom - Tuesdays @ 8:30 pm.
CLICK HERE FOR FLYER AND MORE INFO 
BRIDAL SHOWER Guidelines Reminder
Dear Community Members,
This is a reminder that, following the June 23rd poll and a unanimous Central Board vote, the following recommendations regarding pre-wedding events will go into effect starting December 1, 2025. Over 69% of respondents supported the idea that bridal showers have become too costly and gift-focused, placing unnecessary pressure on guests. In response, and in line with our responsibility to support the unity and long-term welfare of the community, the Central Board is moving forward with the following: Effective December 1, 2025:
● Gifts should not be brought or accepted at bridal showers, Hanna Bandoons, or similar pre-wedding events
● These events should not be held on Sundays
To support this, the Community Calendar will no longer accept requests to book bridal showers or similar events on Sundays. We understand that customs evolve over time, and our goal is to ease the burden on families and guests while preserving the meaningful nature of these celebrations. Thank you for your continued support, The UMJCA Central Board
CLICK HERE FOR PRINTABLE VERSION   
SHAARE SHALOM - Mashadi Jewish Center
RULES & REGULATIONS BOOKLET
CLICK HERE
Club MJC Prek-1st Grade boys & 4th-6th Grade Boys: Nov. 15 & NEW CHAT GROUP
To register, please go to programs.mashadi.org/clubmjc
A chat was made to have all the communication in one place for all parents that send to club mjc, everything will be sent here from what’s happening that week, to special weeks, if there is an off week, what grade and where they will be coming. Hope to see everyone this term! Open this link to join my WhatsApp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/C9t5SLRgCXmJ6leZiLqCQF
CLICK HERE FOR FLYER AND MORE INFO  
Motze Shabbat Classes with Rav Ben-Haim Starting This Week
We are excited to announce the launch of our winter Motze Shabbat shiurim with Rav Ben-Haim starting this Motze Shabbat BH. The class will take place right after Shabbat ends in the library of Shaare Shalom Synagogue. The topic for the this winter will be laws of Tzedakah and Maaser. Class will be in Hebrew. For more information contact Rabbi Mosheh Aziz
Angel Fund Announcement
If you made a pledge during the Angel Fund fundraising campaign and have not yet received a bill, please contact by TEXT Message: George Dilamani – (516) 770-5635,  Morris Aziz – (516) 850-8787.  If you did not have the opportunity to participate or would like to increase your pledge, it’s not too late — we welcome your support! Thank you for being a part of this important cause.
SUNDAY TEFILIN CLASS
Join us Sundays starting October 19 at Shaare Shalom for a morning of tefillah, learning, and basketball with Rabbi Yoav Arjhang and Arieh Livieim. Class runs 10:30–11:30 AM, followed by a meat lunch and basketball until 12:30 PM. For details, contact Rabbi Arjhang at (516) 695-7606 or Arieh Livieim at (516) 532-5977.
CLICK HERE FOR FLYER AND MORE INFO  
SBM Presents “Semichat Chaver Program” with Rabbi Mosheh Aziz!
All men are invited to join the second season of our weekly in-depth halacha shiur studying the laws of Meat and Dairy. Class is open to men only. First class for the upcoming season begins on Wednesday October 29th. For more information or to join, contact Rabbi Mosheh Aziz (516) 423-1939. Link To Join Chat: https://chat.whatsapp.com/IorjCWx5LDoFfyr4VCVl69.
CLICK HERE FOR FLYER AND MORE INFO  
SBM Tutoring – Now Open for Registration!
Looking for quality hebrew and Jewish tutoring for your son?
We’re excited to relaunch for the new school year with personalized sessions designed to help your child grow! Boys ages 6–17 (No Bar Mitzvah students). Located at Shaare Rachamim -  45-minute sessions - Only $40 per session - Subjects include Hebrew, Chumash, Mishnah, Gemara & more! Spots are limited – reserve your spot before the school year gets busy! To set up your son with one of our tutors, please reach out to Josh Aziz on WhatsApp at (516) 418-4601. Spots are limited!!
CLICK HERE FOR FLYER AND MORE INFO  
umjcacemetery.com: The NEW Mashadi Community Cemeteries Website
The Mashadi Community currently utilizes three properties within the New Montefiore Cemetery for burial of loved ones. Additionally, the community owns a fourth property at Beit Moses Cemetery, located across the street from New Montefiore. We are pleased to introduce this new website, designed to provide comprehensive information about your loved ones and cemetery details.
http://umjcacemetery.com/ - For more information, please email to umjcacemetery@gmail.com  
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE UMJCA CEMETERY WEBSITE 
UMJCA Sisterhood 6th Grade Bar & Bat Mitzvah List
SIGN UP!!! @ https://forms.gle/L5QfvV8MtR2ruVtf6
Please fill out the attached form for your incoming 6th grader. This list is used for Sisterhood activities, Bar/Bat mitzvah list, Gym Minyan introduction, and other events. Please fill it out only ONCE PER CHILD. Submitted by Monika Anavim.
Sisterhood’s Women's Entrepreneurship Directory
We are proud to recognize the many talented women within our own community who have launched their own businesses. To support and celebrate their efforts, the UMJCA Sisterhood is excited to introduce the Women's Entrepreneurship Directory — a central space where you can explore and connect with these inspiring ventures. We invite you to bookmark this page and visit often as we continue to grow and spotlight the incredible women in our midst. Submitted by: Arezou Tolou. 
CLICK HERE
SHIRA GUIDELINES 
CLICK HERE
Mashadi Wedding Boutique
In an effort to make life easier for newly engaged couples, and thanks to the incredible generosity of several bridal dress distributors, the Sisterhood is pleased to announce that brand new wedding dresses will be available to Mashadi brides completely for free. Donations to this fund are welcomed @UMJCAevents. Suggested donation of $0 - $1,000 based on comfort level (no obligations). Tailoring by others.
PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR FLYER AND CONTACT INFO  
UMJCA Wedding Package
We are happy to announce that UMJCA Wedding Package with Lederman Catering is BACK. For any information, please contact Haleh Benilevi at (516) 849-3636.
Daily Classes in Shaare Shalom with Rabbi Mosheh Aziz
Please join us for daily classes with Rabbi Mosheh Aziz in Shaare Shalom.
■ Pele Yoetz Daily - Monday-Friday 7:45 am - 8:05 ambefore the 8:05 am Minyan
■ NEW Parasha of the Week with Rashi - Monday-Friday 8:10 am - 8:30 am
before the 8:30 am Minyan
For more information, speak with Rabbi Mosheh Aziz or Adam Liviem
UMJCA Online Portal
Dear community members. We are proud to announce that the UMJCA has developed an online portal for community members to log in and view their pledges, pay their invoices, and download previous transactions. If interested in taking part in Online Billing and Payments , please forward your Name, Email address and Home address for verification to the following WhatsApp account. Only one Email per household can be used. Please Email your information to: BILLING@UMJCA.ORG. Once the Email is authenticated and authorized, you will receive a notification, and the user well have access to the portal. The UMJCA Online portal can currently be found in the Kanissa News mobile app under the Links Tab. Thank you.
Join the new chat!s!
We have created two chats for community members to ask any shabbat/holiday or kashrut related questions. All questions will be answered by community rabbi's and teachers.
Join the chats by clicking on the links below.
Shabbat & Holiday chat:
https://chat.whatsapp.com/GW3Q7QrY3VtIJdMB3o17YP
Kosher Chat:
https://chat.whatsapp.com/Fh7Antlmk7CETORsbkHLOP
SHIRA NEWS
Shaare Shalom
- Celebrating the Wedding of Rebecca (Etessami) to Shalom Wilner (Main Sanctuary)
- Celebrating the Birth of the Newborn Baby Girl, born to Sharon and Steven Kashanian (Main Sanctuary)
Ohr Esther - Young Mashadi Jewish Center
- No Shiras were reported at Ohr Esther
Shaare Rachamim
- No Shiras were reported at Shaare Rachamim
CLICK HERE FOR THE SHIRA NEWS WITH PICTURE
If you would like your Celebration and Picture listed in Shira News or Shalom Week, please email to kanissanews@gmail.com, or holondon@aol.com, whatsapp/text to (917) 859-0269 by Wednesday Night
THIS WEEK IN SHALOM WEEK
■ SHABBAT HACHODESH ■ MOSHE ADMITS HE WAS WRONG! ■ ISRAEL'S ARMS EXPORTS ■ TOP 10 BILLIONAIRES. HOW MANY ARE JEWISH?
Advertisements AND Sponsorships for each month. Please contact Ephraim Aminoff for details as soon as possible as space is limited. Email: Holondon@aol.com, Cell/Text: 516 359 9068
CLICK HERE FOR THE PRINTABLE VERSION ON SHALOM WEEK
Mashadi Women's Shabbat Spice
A weekly dose of wisdom & insights on the Parasha to spice up your Shabbat table! Each week features articles by two women of the community.
For this Week's Edition of Shabbat Spice CLICK HERE
To subscribe by WhatsApp CLICK HERE
To subscribe by email or to write one week, contact mashadishabbatspice@gmail.com
Rabbi Ezrahian Classes on Zoom
CLICK HERE
Mr Bassalian Zoom Page
The following is a recording from three years ago, for those who want to review this Shabbat's Parasha
CLICK HERE 
NOAM NEWS