From Rosh Hashanah to Simchat Torah: Let’s Get Holy Together
Hello all,
In her commentary for the amazing Ze Kollel, Lievnath writes:
Tradition tells us that we call God near, and that we engage in the practice of teshuva – return. I imagine we are being asked to return to our aliveness, to bask in the oneness with the One. The ingredients of oneness (God), of grief (around all things dying, basking in aliveness) and love (basking in oneness) are tools of transformation and liberation. What if in the magical portal between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur we are asked to return to being agents of liberation in the world?
This is the question Oy Vey is asking during the coming holiday season. We have a lot planned. You are invited to save the dates and join us as much and as often as possible. It’s going to be busy!
Join us for:
- Rosh Hashanah on September 22
- Yom Kippur on October 2
- Sukkot from 6 – 13 October (date of activity to be announced)
- Simchat Torah on 14 October
You can find more details for all of our 5786 events on our website in English and Dutch.
Don’t forget our other events!
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Exciting news! Tickets available now for the 2nd Jewish Manifestival! This time in The Hague on Wednesday, Sept 17.
From Oy Vey with Love! Tu b’Av is coming up on August 9. We want you to be ours.
We’re talking about Israel and Palestine with the Deviant Yeshiva. On Sunday, August 24 we’ll be talking about all the different Zionisms.
From our community
Hidah: Jewish Counter-Colonial Thoughts
Just because we adore Yonathan, Alexia, and Daniel, the hosts of the podcast Hidah, doesn’t mean it’s not great. It is!
Hidah: a virtual beit midrash for counter-colonial Jewish thought. At a time when Jewish histories are being weaponised at an all-time high, we open radical conversations for learning, interviewing scholars, activists, and artists from across the globe. This podcast works towards liberation and the dignity of all.
On Spotify or your favorite podcast app.
Pardes online summer program
Check it out!
https://www.pardes.org.il/summer-program/
Summer with Chavurah Ruach Shalom
We continue in the summer with services planned on Friday, 25 July and Friday 29 August, both starting at 19:30. The location is at a home in Amsterdam; details are given after you sign up. Space is limited.
We will join together to welcome Shabbat with songs, prayers, and sharing about the parasha.
The parasha for 25 July is Matot Masei
The parasha for 29 August is Shoftim
This will be followed by a vegetarian (preferably lactose free) potluck dinner. Please aim to arrive before the start time, whether on Zoom or in person. Be sure to sign up if you’re coming and say what food you will bring. Then we will send you a mail with the address and details.
You can attend either in-person or on Zoom. The location is accessible without stairs. Please sign up at https://bit.ly/ruachshalomnl, and you’ll be sent the location and Zoom link.
(Family)constellations for participants with Jewish roots
The experiences of previous generations often echo in our lives, shaping us in ways we may not fully see or understand. We carry this history in our bodies, our relationships, and our choices. A family constellation allows us to explore these hidden entanglements. Not to fix the past, but to gently face what once felt as too much to bear. When what’s stuck begins to move, space opens for healing and recognition. This edition is especially for participants with Jewish roots, whether or not you are practicing. We warmly welcome “the grandchildren” (third-generation Jews), as well as others who feel called. A shared background deepens the collective field and reminds us of the power of community.
Practical Information
Date: Saturday, 28th of September 2025
Time: 09:30 – 17:00
Location: Esoterra Amsterdam
Wingerdweg 32, 1031 CA Amsterdam
Language: English, Dutch speakers may have their constellation in Dutch (translation available for those who do not speak Dutch)
Pricing (incl. VAT)
Own constellation: €140 | With partner: €200 (for both) | As participant (no own constellation): €80 | As participant with partner: €150 (for both)
Tikkun Olam – In the spirit of Jewish tradition: Add a donation of your choice to help someone attend who may not otherwise be able to.
Note: Only 5 spots available for those bringing in a personal constellation. If finances are a concern, please reach out—support is available.
For more information, registration & questions contact Nora (ENG/NL)
nora.elfamsterdam@gmail.com
THE LAST WORD
Shema
by Sauci Bosner
I recite by memory the Shema
each night before I fall asleep.
Just in case.
I eat a hearty breakfast
each morning.
Just in case.
I pay my bills on time.
Just in case.
I filled a war drawer
with food, filters, batteries, wipes, cash.
Just in case.
I live each day
as best I can.
Just in case.
I pray to an invisible God.
Just in case.
Shout it out.
Here and now.
Everywhere for everyone to hear.
Manifest peace now.
Amen.