Candle Lighting Blessing
We kindle lights on Shabbat and on Jewish holidays as a sacred act of welcome — drawing a boundary between the ordinary and the holy. The person lighting the candles waves their hands over the flames, covers their eyes, recites the blessing, and then opens their eyes to behold the light. SHABBAT CANDLES Hebrew: בָּרוּךְ […]
Yom Kippur
Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is the holiest day of the Jewish year — a solemn and sacred time for reflection, repentance, and renewal. We come together to fast, pray, and open our hearts in the ancient rites of Kol Nidre and Neilah. Yom Kippur invites us to honestly examine our actions, seek forgiveness […]
Rosh Hashana
Rosh Hashana, the Jewish New Year, marks the beginning of the High Holy Days — a sacred ten-day period of reflection, renewal, and return. We gather to hear the ancient call of the shofar, recite Unetaneh Tokef, and remember that each new year is both a gift and a second chance. The holiday invites us […]
Blessing Over the Children
Many families bless their children on Shabbat (and at other meaningful moments). Traditionally, we begin with one line for a son or a daughter, and then continue with the Priestly Blessing. FOR A SON (BEN) Hebrew: יְשִׂמְךָ אֱלֹהִים כְּאֶפְרַֽיִם וְכִמְנַשֶּׁה. English: May God make you like Ephraim and Menasheh. FOR A DAUGHTER (BAT) Hebrew: יְשִׂמֵךְ […]
Purim
Purim is a joyful, high energy holiday that comes from the Book of Esther (Megillat Esther), where Queen Esther and Mordecai help save the Jewish people in ancient Persia. We celebrate by hearing the Megillah read aloud, showing up in costume, sharing treats and gifts with friends (mishloach manot), and making sure those in need […]