Shabbat

  Shabbat this week, Rachel, Judy and Stacy C. said the blessings over the candles together. Aaron and Todd said blessings over the grape juice and challah.  The torah portion for the week, “Tzaria” describes the rituals for after a woman gives birth and how to handle impurities on the skin. The lesson that Hagit, the Judaic Coordinator, discussed is that Judaism encourages us not to gossip. Stacy agreed that gossiping or talking behind someone’s back does not make people feel good. The group continued to talk about Passover which is coming up in less than two weeks. Everyone is looking forward to the third virtual Sedar, (traditional Passover meal). Stacy thanks everyone for the comfort they gave her while […]

Shabbat celebrations began this week with songs in both Hebrew and English. When it was time for the prayers, Alicia said the blessings over the candles followed by Mark chanting the blessings over the grape juice and the challah. The group learned about the torah portion “Sh’mini”. The portion begins with offerings to G-d. This portion goes on to explain the rules for being kosher. During the portion, two of Aaron’s sons die. The group talk about and how devastated Aaron was after their passing. He was so shocked; he was not able to speak. The group discussed that it is ok to have space for silence and that there is a lot that can be learned by staying quiet […]

  Everyone was so happy to be together to welcome Shabbat after taking a week off. The group sang songs celebrating Purim in both Hebrew and English. Hannah sang the blessings over the candles, then Kevin and Aaron joined together to recite the blessings of the grape juice and the challah.   While learning about Purim, Hannah shared her favorite costume is a princess. The group also discussed the next holiday that is quickly approaching, Passover! Kevin is excited because he loves Matzoh Ball Soup!   Tzav or “command” in Hebrew, the torah portion this week describes the different laws of sacrifices. It teaches that there should be a difference between offerings for sin, a burnt offering and an offering […]

  The times, they are a changin’. JSDD has started using Microsoft Teams. This was the first Shabbat to try out the new program and it went off without a hitch. Cheers to the amazing DSP’s who helped make the transition so smooth. It has been said before, but their dedication and ability to adapt is unparalleled!     We welcomed Shabbat with Rachel saying the blessings over the candles. Mark recited the blessings over the grape juice and challah. Rachel shared that she enjoyed spending time at the mall this morning. She showed everyone her new ring and Ralph complimented her on it.  The torah portion of the week “Pekudei” is the final parsha of the book of “Shemot” […]

  Shabbat celebrations began this week just like last week with Rachel chanting the blessing over the candles followed by Daniel and Todd performing the blessings for the candles and the challah. Rachel shared that she loved spending time with Stacy again this week. Daniel is looking forward to spending time with his father this weekend. Vayakhel, the torah portion this week translates to “and he assembled”. The portion begins with G-d commanding the Israelites to refrain from any work on Shabbat. In addition to building the sanctuary, the Israelites bring gifts for G-d and after a while, they are told it is too much and they should not bring any more. Among those working to build the tabernacle are […]