IT’S TIME FOR CHANUKAH!
from Deborah Niederman, R.J.E. Religious School Director
Well, it is finally here, the month we celebrate Chanukah, Kislev. Many students in our Religious School say that Chanukah is their favorite holiday; it is a time when so many families come together, all week long, to celebrate the victory of our people, to participate in Jewish ritual and to share stories, songs and gifts. Certainly, gifts are a good thing! But, there are so many other reasons to be exicted about the celebration of Chanukah.
We learn these important lessons from Chanukah:
Belief in miracles; if we open our eyes to it, we can see the miraculous workings of God’s hand daily, and, of course, there are the miracles of Chanukah — the ability of a small people to overcome a great enemy and the miracle of the oil.
Even in the darkness we can find light. When the Temple was destroyed the Maccabees were able to light the eternal light, the light of God’s presence.
Freedom to stand up for what we believe is right; freedom to be different and to practice our religion as we choose.
Rededication, this is what Chanukah actually means. At this time each year, in the dark and cold of winter (well, not so cold in Miami) we rededicate ourselves to renewed Jewish learning and Jewish family living.
Thankfulness. Through songs, prayers and acts of loving kindness, we show our thankfulness to God for the many joys of this season. This year, we begin the tradition of celebrating with MITZVAH MADNESS MONTH!.
Be sure to be a part of Mitzvah Madness Month; bring in:
Your loose change
Toys for others, and
Socks, hats and gloves for the homeless of Miami
Be sure to check out the Binder in this month’s Commentator for a recipe for the celebration of Chanukah!
IMPORTANT RELIGIOUS SCHOOL DATES IN DECEMBER
December 2: Menorah Contest Entries Due
December 5-11: Chanukah
December 6: K-2 Family Dinner and Choir of the Month
December 7,8&9: Chanukah Celebrations in School
December 8: 613 Shiur
December 9: Rappin’ with the Rabbis
December 14&15: The Greenhorn Game
No School December 21st – January 5th
School resumes Monday, January 6th.
For more information contact our Regious School Principal, Deborah Niederman, RJE
