Chabad of Brunswick, Maine

“Every soul is equal in worth, but not identical in purpose.”

Korach’s famous rebellion against Moses and Aharon takes place in this week’s Torah portion. Korach challenged Moses’ leadership and Aharon’s priesthood, claiming every Jew has a divine soul and an innate connection to G-d, and therefore we can all be leaders. Korach’s claim that each of us at a soul level is equally holy, may be true, but where he was mistaken is in assuming that equality means we are all the same. Each of us possesses a Divine soul, equal in its essence and connection to G-d. Yet every soul is entrusted with a unique mission, expressed through the particular talents, circumstances, and opportunities it is given in this world. Our purpose here is to fulfill our individual, unique mission. Focusing on our own purpose without comparing ourselves to those around us or trying to be an other, will lead to true fulfillment and deep, inner happiness.

Please light Shabbat candles at 8:08pm

In memory of the Rebbe’s 32nd yahrzeit, join Chabad of Brunswick for an inspiring evening of Torah, stories, l’chaims, and connection as we honor and celebrate the enduring legacy, timeless teachings, and profound impact of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, whose inspiration, faith, and love for every Jew continue to guide and uplift people around the world.

Tuesday, June 16 • 6:30 PM

Dinner will be served.

Location provided upon RSVP.

RSVP: [email protected]

Fresh homemade challah and chocolate & cinnamon babka will be at the Yarmouth Farmers Market this Thursday, June 11, from 3:00–6:00 PM!

Fresh, homemade, and delicious.

If you’re at the market, come say hi and grab some challah and babka! 🤎

“Light people until they no longer need your light.”

In this week’s Torah portion, Aharon, the high priest, is commanded to light the Menorah. The Torah describes this as “causing the flames to ascend,” and the commentators explain that the lamps had to be kindled until the flames burned steadily on their own.
Beyond the practical instructions for lighting the Menorah, this teaches a powerful lesson about how we influence others. Our goal is not simply to inspire people in the moment, but to empower them to shine independently. Whether as parents, teachers, friends, or mentors, we should share our light in a way that helps others discover and sustain their own.
The greatest impact we can have is by helping others become sources of light themselves.

Please light Shabbat candles at 8:01pm

“Sinai taught that finite people can carry infinite purpose.”

The revolution at Mount Sinai was that G-d created a connection between heaven and earth. What had previously been two entirely separate realms were now joined, and the mundane was made capable of spiritual elevation. Since then, our mission has been to use the everyday things and opportunities we encounter for holiness, to uplift our earthly world and make it more heavenly. Wax for Shabbat candles, parchment for a mezuzah, and more. As we receive the Torah this Shavuot, let us commit to focusing on the mundane around us and finding ways to use it in service of G-d.

Please light holiday and Shabbat candles tonight at 7:47pm and tomorrow at 7:49pm

Jewish children NEEDoh hear the 10 Commandments on Shavuot 🥰

Every year on this holiday, we receive the Torah anew and relive the moment when the Jewish people became a nation at Mount Sinai!

The Torah is our gift and our life, so come along and celebrate at our Community Shavuot Celebration! It’s one of the yummiest parties of the year, so don’t miss out!

All are invited!!! The event is for adults and children.

We will be raffling off Needohs and Ice Cream Slushie Cups for those who RSVP before Shavuot and attend on Friday!!

Friday, May 22, 5:00 PM in our backyard!

Ice cream, cheesecakes, and a delicious dairy dinner!!

If your kids have been begging for a NEEDOH, or if you want to join the fun, visit:
JewishBrunswick.com/shavuot

“Counting a person doesn’t reduce them to a number, it reveals that they matter infinitely.”

This week’s Torah portion begins with a census of the Jewish people in the desert. But when G-d commands Moshe to count them, the Torah uses an unusual phrase: “Lift the heads of the Jewish people”. As with every word in Torah, this language is intentional.
Usually, counting reduces people to numbers, just one among many. But this census was different. When G-d counted the Jewish people, He counted them like diamonds. No matter how many there are, each one is precious and valued.
By counting us, G-d was not diminishing us. He was lifting us up, reminding every Jew of our inherent worth and G-dly value.

Please light Shabbat candles at 7:41pm

Shavuot Night Learning.
Thursday, May 21st, 7:30pm of Brunswick

Topic- The Story of Ruth-Exploring the journey of kindness and faith.
[email protected]

Shavuot is coming up!
Join us on Friday, May 22 at 5:00 pm
Hear the Ten Commandments followed by an Ice Cream Party 🍦
RSVP! Jewishbrunswick.com/shavuot