Dear Families,
Happy Friday! Stay warm this weekend.
Here are Chanukah blessings, the first candle is lit on Tuesday, December 12.
3rd-6th Grade Parents– Please join us on Wednesday, December 13 for Chanukah candle lighting and songs, 6:00pm in lobby. You are welcome to bring your Chanukiah.
Torah Talk:
http://jewishjourneyproject.weebly.com/parshat-vayeshev.html (includes a video about the parsha!)
As we enter the shortest days of the year, we are aware of the sun setting early and the preciousness of light. Next week we will kindle our Chanukiot and illuminate our homes with the celebration of Chanukah. These flames symbolize the miracle of a small but mighty army that was able to overcome the enemy. I cannot help but struggle with the dichotomy of the flames that are burning on the other side of our country. I lived in Southern California for five years and remember the smoky air and ash coating my car during previous fires. Through my Facebook feed I have seen that a few friends have been evacuated, thankfully at this time, their homes are still standing. How can the same flames that symbolize hope wreak such destruction? Just like in the story of the miracle of oil, there are miracles of kind hearts helping those lives affected by the California fires. A friend at a synagogue in Los Angeles posted on Facebook tables of Torahs rescued from neighboring congregations (I have attached a photo at the end of this email). Another friend told me that ten families from his home congregation in Ventura, California were destroyed and tonight, congregants will gather to heal and provide comfort.
As, we kindle the Shabbat candles tonight and the Chanukah candles next week, the flames will be reminders of the uncertainty of life but also a reminder of the blessings that shine through in the most difficult of times.
Wishing you and your family a Happy Chanukah.
Family Activity
What do you think a miracle is?
What are some miracles in your own lives?
Upcoming Events:
Community Announcements:
New Year’s Family Camp at Capital Camps (December 29 – January 1)
There’s something for every member of the family at Capital Camps! Bring your family to sit around a campfire together, make s’mores, fly on the zip-line, create art, play on the sports fields and so much more. Come to learn, have fun, and share meaningful moments with family and friends. In addition to program opportunities for families to enjoy together, our counselors run separate programs for kids, providing ‘grown?up’ time for adults to enjoy being with one another. Everything is included – food, accommodations, program, fun and memories. Click here to learn more and register!
Shabbat shalom,
Luisa Moss
Director of Education and Youth Programming
