March 2010 News
Passover Matzah & Food Packages
Thanks to the assistance of dozens of volunteers, the JRCC distributed over 3,500 packages of hand-made shmurah matzah, the unleavened bread that is a must have for the Passover Seders. The Rebbe specified that even those who use regular matzah later in the holiday should be sure to have shmurah matzah for the Seder. The JRCC also sold over 2,000 pounds of matzah through its office and delivered 600 holiday food packages to needy families from the Former Soviet Union in conjunction with the NCJW, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to share in the joy of the Passover holiday. Special thanks to all the volunteers who made the time to personally deliver the matzahs and food packages.
How to Passover
For dozens of people who attended the JRCC’s pre-Passover workshop, it was a valuable learning opportunity that they just couldn’t, um, pass over. A whole slew of preparatory Passover classes were hosted this year by each of the JRCC rabbis in their respective neighbourhoods. In addition to insightful classes highlighting the meaning and inner significance of Passover, several classes placed particular focus on the practical aspects of celebrating Passover.
Over 600 People Attend JRCC Passover Seders
Over 600 people attended Community Passover Seders organized by the Jewish Russian Community Centre in 8 locations throughout the Greater Toronto Area on March 29 and 30. The Seders provided people with the opportunity to experience a traditional Seder in a warm and welcoming environment with family and friends. The insightful guidance and explanations of the presiding rabbis enriched the Seder with added meaning and depth, while the camaraderie and singing enhanced the jubilant holiday atmosphere.
Dozens more families were able to make traditional Seders at home - many for the first time - thanks to the assistance and instruction of JRCC staff and rabbis. Special Seders were also organized by volunteers for youth and seniors.
Hebrew School Hands-On Passover Experience
Students attending the JRCC Hebrew School were treated to a hands-on programs that enabled them to experience Passover related activities first hand. Students took a special field trip to the Children’s Matzah Bakery. The children were able to learn how matzah is made, from the grinding of the wheat into flour to the baking of the matzah in 18 minutes flat. They even got to don their own baker hats and take rolling pins to the dough to make their own matzahs.
Making Music
Last month’s monthly women’s gathering followed the example of the Biblical Miriam, who lead the women in celebration after the exodus from Egypt by singing and playing drums and tambourines. Participants fashioned their own tambourines, and enjoyed music and refreshments as they shared inspiring thoughts about Passover and the role of women in celebrating Jewish life. Organized by the JRCC @ Rockford, Thornhill and Yong & Clark. For information about upcoming women’s programs in you community call 416.222.7105 x221 or visit www.jrcc.org
Jewish Women Through the Centuries
Last month a wonderful community celebration for women & girls took place at the Kehilla Centre, hosted by the Karlin family in honour of the Bat Mitzvah of their daughter, Mika Gabriella. The evening featured a spellbinding presentation of Jewish Women Through the Centuries in the form of a fashion show, which participants enjoyed as they partook of delectable refreshments. Many thanks to the Karlin family for organizing such a wonderful tribute and celebration of Jewish womanhood.
