On the last day of each week, Shabbat, the Jewish Sabbath, is observed. Jews everywhere pause from their ordinary routine and greet the observance rich in tradition. With the guidance of Hagit Oren, JSDD Judaic Coordinator, JSDD residents and invited guests gather weekly via Zoom and welcome Shabbat.
The candle-lighting blessing – Blessed are You, Lord our God, Ruler of the Universe, who has sanctified us with commandments and commanded us to light Shabbat candles, was recited beautifully by Stacy. Daniel proudly recited the Kiddush blessing over the grape juice/wine and then the Hamotzi blessing over the bread.
Hagit spoke about the holiday of Purim which is a festive day of merrymaking and it is common to dress up in costumes. There was discussion of Queen Esther, who plays an important role in the story of Purim, because she had courage to stand up for her people, the Jewish people. Another tradition during Purim is listening to the reading of the Megillah – a Hebrew scroll referred to as the Scroll of Esther. Kevin said he enjoyed listening to the reading of the Megillah with Adath Shalom the night before via Zoom.
The participants said they feel thankful for the Zoom Shabbat Community and especially when they joyfully sing Shabbat songs together. Dinner in the homes following the Zoom gathering was pizza and a dessert of Hamantaschen – a triangular fruit or poppy seed filled cookie that represents the ears or some might say the hat of Haman, the evil man in the story of Purim.
Shabbat Shalom!
