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FRIDAY DEC 12, 2025
PARASHAT: Vayeshev
CANDLE LIGHTING: 4:09 pm
SHABBAT ENDS: 5:18 pm
PRAYER TIMES
Supervisory Council Announcement
The UMJCA Supervisory Council is happy to notify the Community the following Central Board Officers Positions:
UMJCA Central Board Officers Announcement 2025-2028
Cathy Banilivy | Allen Hakim | Allen Hakimian | Babak Kamali | Herbert Livi | Mahtab Zar
Shaare Shalom Shabbat Speaker:
Rabbi Mordechay Kohanim
Submitted By Hertzl Cohanpour
Congressman Tom Suozzi Special Guest at Shaare Shalom this Shabbat - Dec 13 
We are pleased to announce that Congressman Tom Suozzi will be visiting Shaare Shalom this Shabbat Dec 13th. This is a wonderful opportunity for our community to welcome him, hear a brief update on current issues, and engage in meaningful conversation. We hope you will join us for this special visit.
Save the Date! SBM Online Fundraiser - December 14–16 
This Chanukah, we come together to keep the Torah flame alive in our community! Your support fuels the fire of Torah learning, inspiration, and growth for our entire community. Stay tuned for more details and get ready to make an impact! To Donate: https://causematch.com/sbm2025
CLICK HERE FOR FLYER AND MORE INFO  
 
Chanukah Carnival at Shaare Rachamim!
Join us for a fun-filled Chanukah Carnival at Shaare Rachamim! Enjoy popcorn, cotton candy, games, prizes, balloon animals, face paint, a bouncy castle, bubble show, arts & crafts, and special chesed activities like writing letters to IDF soldiers and making grab bags for the elderly. Sunday, December 14th, 1–4 PM. *Just $10 per child*. Pizza and sufganiyot available for purchase. Join us for a Chanukah Carnival at Shaare Rachamim! Enjoy treats, games, prizes, activities, and special chesed projects. Sunday, Dec. 14th, 1–4 PM. Just $10 per child. Submitted by Shawn Aziz.
CLICK HERE FOR FLYER AND MORE INFO  
A TASTE OF TORAH
Ladies, please join us this Shabbat for A TASTE OF TORAH, with Rabbanit Coty Bitton and featuring this week: Parashat Vayeshev, with special guest speaker Michal Kalaty. Doors open 12:15pm, downstairs Beit Midrash.
CLICK HERE FOR FLYER AND MORE INFO  
13 years of the 8:05 Minyan
The entire community is cordially invited to join and celebrate 13 years of the 8:05 Minyan, Tuesday Morning December 16th at Shaare Shalom. 8:05 Shacharit followed by an extraordinary lavish breakfast! Looking forward to seeing everyone.
CLICK HERE FOR FLYER AND MORE INFO  
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 
Eliyahu Yossian: Special Guest at Shaare Shalom on Shabbat, Dec 20th
Join us next Shabbat, December 20th, in Shaare Shalom for a special visit from long-time IDF intelligence officer and famous Israeli TV commentator, Mr. Eliyahu Yossian. Mr. Yossian will give a brief address in all three Minyanim followed by a full talk and meet-and-greet in the Small Sanctuary after services. All are welcome to attend.
 
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
MESA News!
A love of learning filled our halls this week as the MESA Book Fair captivated students on Tuesday and welcomed parents on Wednesday, transforming school closure days for teacher development and parent teacher conferences into meaningful moments of connection and community.
We’re excited to announce a fresh slate of after school programs beginning in January, featuring woodworking, Farsi, chess, baking, sports, and more, open to the community on an available basis. For more information, please contact the MESA office at 516-613-4422.
UPCOMING EVENTS
• Dec 17: MESA Wednesday Trip to the Assisted Living Residence teaches Chesed!
• Dec 19: Kindergarten Kabbalat Shabbat at Shaare Rachamim
• January: 1st Grade Siddur Celebration
• February: 2nd & 3rd Grade Chumash Celebration
Momentum is building at MESA a school of excellence where learning and community are a cut above.
Treasures of the Mashadi Kitchen
UMJCA Sisterhood cookbook by Mrs Ania Nassimi is available for sale. Please venmo $40 to @paysisterhood. Pick up on 12/17/25. Submitted by: Arezou Tolou
CLICK HERE FOR FLYER AND MORE INFO  
Sip & Slice: A Couples Night Out - Dec 20
Join us for an uplifting evening of connection, inspiration, and incredible food! 8:15 PM - Wine & Fresh Brick-Oven Pizza. Catered by Aqua de Grano. 9:00 PM - Lecture by Rabbi Reuven Ibragimov, Rabbi of Safra Synagogue. “Keeping the Flame Burning: Marriage Tips We Learn From Chanuka”.  Shaare Rachamim. Dec. 20th, Motza'ei Shabbat Chanuka.   $60 per couple. Must RSVP — Limited Spots. RSVP link: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/couples-night-out
Submit questions for the Rabbi* (must be submitted in advance): https://forms.gle/KpjndHuP6VfU14xb8
CLICK HERE FOR FLYER AND MORE INFO  
Supervisory Council Announcement
The UMJCA Supervisory Council is happy to notify the Community the following Board Officers Positions:
Shaare Shalom Officers Announcements
Ohr Esther Officers Announcement
Shaare Rachamim Officers Announcement
Cathy Banilivy | Allen Hakim | Allen Hakimian | Babak Kamali | Herbert Livi | Mahtab Zar
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. Please send your replies to: 
https://www.facebook.com/yehudi.mashadi or https://www.facebook.com/kanissanews
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE PICTURE 
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
DECEMBER Classes at Shaare Shalom & Shaare Rachamim
All men are invited to join in on any of this month’s classes. Classes take place in Shaare Shalom & Shaare Rachamim, both mornings & evenings. Submitted by R. Michael Livi.  See attached flyers for Details:
PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR SHAARE SHALOM MORNING CLASSES
PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR SHAARE RACHAMIM MORNING CLASSES
PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR SHAARE RACHAMIM NIGHTLY CLASSES
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  
Saturday Night Family Learning Program is ON 
Rabbi Moshe is taking over FLP with more learning and more fun this Saturday Night from 7:00-8:00 pm @ 54. Learning for Boys & Girls of all ages, Snacks, FLP Junior for children ages 5 and younger, Kahoot challenge and cool Raffle prizes every week. This week's Family Learning Program is sponsored by: Mr and Mrs William Dilamani liluy Nishmat Chana Bat Avraham, Mr and Mrs Adam Bassalali liluy nishmat David Ben Aharon, Mr and Mrs Mikael Kavian & Mr and Mrs Marcel Kavian liluy nishmat Mashiach Ben Mirza Agha, Mr and Mrs Jonathan Nassimi in honor of Samuels Birthday, Mr and Mrs Pejman Hakimian in honor of Judahs Birthday, Mr and Mrs Rodney Zabihi in honor of Judahs Birthday, Mr and Mrs Payam Rahmanan, Mr and Mrs Jason Rahimi, Mr and Mrs Josh Hackman.
 
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
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
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.
LARGE SELECTION AVAILABLE
Large selection of new Tzitzit for Bar Mitzvahs, weddings, Tzitzit Kattan,Mezuzot, and Tefilins Are available for purchase in Shaare Shalom. For more information, please contact THE Shaare shalom office, Morris Aziz, Parham Shaer.
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 Chessed Network
We are pleased to announce the launch of the Mashadi Chessed Network, an MYC initiative. This platform has been created to connect volunteers with meaningful chessed opportunities across our community. Please note, this is an admin-only chat and no fundraising will take place here. If you would like to volunteer or have a request, feel free to reach out to the admins. Join the group:
https://chat.whatsapp.com/DcZiYyTvA4oBfBlGrMagip.
Together, we can make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most. For more information please contact Arieh Livieim.
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
- No Shiras were reported at Shaare Shalom
Ohr Esther - Young Mashadi Jewish Center
-  No Shiras were reported at Ohr Esther
Shaare Rachamim
- Celebrating the Bar-Mitzvah Torah Reading by Yehuda Yonah Livi, son of Vanessa and Michael Livi
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
■ Special Chanukah issue ■ Judge favorably --Always give the benefit of the doubt
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
CLICK HERE 
NOAM NEWS