Tender news about Arthur, invitation for Sunday
by Rabbi Nate DeGroot
Dear companions in love and justice,
I am writing to share the tender news that our dear Reb Arthur entered into hospice at his home in Philadelphia earlier this week. He and I spoke yesterday and his spirit seemed strong and he seemed quite at peace. I trust that you will join me in sending prayers of love and deep care for him and his family.
I know Arthur has had such a profound impact on so many of you and I imagine you might want to connect with him during this time. Please note, he will no longer be monitoring his email or texts and any communication with him - including phone calls - will be coordinated through his beloved wife Phyllis. If you live in Philly, please do not drop-in for a visit. To share words with him, please write him a blessing here or email office@theshalomcenter.org for further instructions.
Thankfully, Arthur is still planning to attend his online (Ninety)Two Books Launch Birthday Party this Sunday from 6:30-8:30pm ET. It would be really lovely to have you join!
As you likely know, we are celebrating his 92nd birthday and the launch of two new books that he's written (with the support of scribes) since turning 90! One is an activist's memoir, the story of much of his life, and the other is a new Torah for the world today with many esteemed contributors. The program will be recorded and all registrants will receive a link to the recording.
If you have ever learned with Arthur or been moved by something you've heard him say or write, Arthur and Phyllis have indicated that the best way to honor him now is to register for the event and preorder the books here and encourage family, friends, and broader networks to join you. When you click on the link, you can preorder the two books and register for $92 or just register for the webinar for $18 (though we’re confident you’ll want these books on your bookshelf)!
With gratitude and blessings to Arthur for how deeply he has inspired so many of us, and to each of you as we continue to support him on this journey together.
Rabbi Nate
(Ninety)Two Books Launch Birthday Party
Sunday, October 12
6:30-8:30pm ET // 3:30-5:30pm PT
Zoom
On October 12th, Arthur turns 92. Since turning 90, he has written two new books!
The first is called Tales of Spirit Rising and Sometimes Falling and it is a memoir of Arthur’s life, written in the style of Hasidic tales. The second is called Handbook for Heretics and Prophets: A New Torah for a New World and it is an anthology with sacred offerings for a Judaism of our time, from Arthur and many dear and esteemed Torah-lovers, including the special guests at the October 12th program and many more.
Celebrate Arthur's birthday and the launch of these two new books at a books launch birthday party on October 12th, 6:30-8:30pm ET (Zoom).
Reb Arthur, Reb Phyllis, Rabbi Amichai Lau-Lavie, Rabbi / Kohenet Jill Hammer, Rabbi Shefa Gold, Rabbi Elyse Wechterman, and Student Rabbi Hadasah Yaqob-Johnson will be in conversation about the books and their themes.
Music will be performed by Batya Levine and Rabbi Nate DeGroot will host. There will be cake!
Preorder the books when you register for the program or just sign up to attend. But really, we think you’ll be glad you preordered the books, especially since Handbook for Heretics and Prophets is only available through this special offer!
Click the button below to register for the program and to read more about the books launch special offer and birthday party.