Shabbat celebrations began this week with Stacy C. and Debbie chanting the blessing over the candles. Mark performed the blessings over the grape juice and the matzah. Since this is the last full day of Passover, the group enjoyed matzah instead of challah. Next, there was a video about the preparation of matzah. An interesting fact is that in order to be considered Kosher and allowed to be eaten on Passover, matzah must be made in 18 minutes from the time the water and flour touch until it comes out of the oven, otherwise there is time where the ingredients could ferment and not allowed to be consumed. Daniel and Stacy C. both said they really enjoy matzah and had a great time at their seders with their families.
The conversation moved on the period of the counting of the Omer. It is 49 days long and represents the time similar to mourning where some refrain from getting haircuts, attending simchas (happy events). Counting begins on the second night of Passover and concludes on Shavout.
As much as everyone said how much they enjoyed the holiday, they are all looking forward to having bread again. Specifically, pizza and bagels!
Shabbat Shalom!