The Alternative Press

When an Israeli soldier was killed by random sniper fire, a prominent local rabbi proclaimed, "Every bullet has its address." He meant that when it is decreed that it is your time, you cannot change your fate.

His comments generated an outpouring of response. Those on one side were incensed that G-d's role could even be questioned. Those on the other side saw as childish the belief that all events are controlled by a greater force. Is G-d aware of every spiderweb spun? Does G-d recognize each feather that drops from each sparrow, as our tradition tells us? Do our actions influence G-d's decisions about our lives? Is G-d making decisions about our lives?

These are the issues participants will explore in a provocative three-session workshop, called "Where's My Miracle?" led by Rabbi Mark Biller. The lively exchanges, which are free of charge, will be held at noon on Wednesdays, Feb. 6 (snow date Feb. 13), Feb. 27 (snow date March 5) and March 13 (snow date March 15), in the Morris County Library downstairs small conference room, 30 E. Hanover Ave., Whippany.

The workshops are being sponsored by National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW), West Morris Section, under the auspices of Our Jewish World, co-chaired by Ellen Nesson and Melanie Levitan, both of Morristown.

"You may well be surprised at the range of opinions offered on these and similar questions by our traditional sages," says Rabbi Biller. "Learn what classic Jewish texts say about this subject, and add your thoughts to the conversation."

Rabbi Biller will also lead a two-part workshop, titled "Genesis: From Written Text to Oral Tradition—How Did That Happen?" These free sessions, also sponsored by NCJW, West Morris, will be held at 7 p.m. on April 8 and 18, also at the Morris County Library.

Rabbi Biller specializes in the art of storytelling, and counseling Jews of all ritual levels looking to find meaning in both modern life and rich Jewish traditions. The spiritual leader of synagogues in his native Canada, as well as in Alabama, New York and New Jersey, the rabbi received rabbinic ordination from the Jewish Theological Seminary. He also studied BiblioDrama with Peter Pitzele at the Union Theological Seminary, and completed a two-year Spiritual Direction course at Elat Chayyim, designed to help participants teach others how to identify and follow their own spiritual paths.

The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, and families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms.          

Space is limited, so pre-registration is requested. To register for the thought-provoking "Where's My Miracle?" sessions, please e-mail ellen.nesson@gmail.com.