We had a great discussion of Btzelem Elohim this past week in YBY. I really enjoyed hearing the students talk about things they thought had been influenced by God such as butterflies and beautiful trees. We'll continue this discussion this week and parents will have the opportunity to discuss with one another how we individually connect with God and how to talk about God within our families. I look forward to hearing your various perspectives. Here's a recording of one of my favorite Jewish camp songs, B'tzelem Elohim by Dan Nichols (sung as it is best- with a huge group of teens singing along!)
After what seems like many weeks of Jewish holidays, we are finally approaching the end of the cycle! As much as I have enjoyed observing with my friends and family and having extra days off work (I also work for the Jewish Federation of the East Bay!), it will be nice to have a regular schedule again. I hope to see many of you at Temple Isaiah's Simchat Torah celebration and Consecration potluck on Sunday beginning at 5:30 pm. The Consecration potluck is for all kindergartners and new students to Religious School.
One of the last holidays of this cycle is Shemini Atzeret, which is a pretty mysterious holiday to Jews today. Click here for a website that has some more information, but know that many scholars even are confused by its importance and origin! We know that we begin saying the prayer for rain on this holiday and it's a part of the eight-day festival of Sukkot.
Speaking of many Jewish holidays, a new website has popped up that is very useful! I also find it pretty funny that it exists at all, but definitely appreciate its information.
http://www.isitajewishholidaytoday.com/ Enjoy!
L'Shalom,
Julie
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