18 ELUL FARBRENGEN

The 18th of Elul was marked with an uplifting community farbrengen gathering / Kidush was held shabbat afternoon at all thee JRCC branches attended by dozens of community members. This date marks the birthday of two great luminaries — the Baal Shem Tov (R. Yisrael ben R. Eliezer, born 1698), founder of the Chassidic move¬ment, and the Alter Rebbe (R. Shneur Zalman of Liadi, born 1745), founder of Chabad. Together, they formed the foundation of the Chassidic revolution of Jewish life, one that continues unabated to this day. This day also marks 12 days before Rosh Hashana, one day to reflect upon each month from the previous calendar year.

PRE ROSH HASHANAH HONEY BEE WORKSHOP

On honor of Rosh Hashana, when we have the custom to eat honey to signify our wish for a sweet new year, the JRCC S Richmond Hill & Maple branch hosted a Honey Been Workshop for kids. Dozens of children and family members came out to experience a handson exploration of the fascinating world of the honeybee and how it produces honey. The workshop was also an opportunity to showcase the JRCC Hebrew School, which focuses on Jewish experiential learning. The event connected our Jewish traditions with their place within the natural world and the human experience, and concluded with a fun and exciting honeybee activity.

SHOFAR WORKSHOP FOR ADULTS

The JRCC Woodbridge hosted an evening for adults to learn all about the mitzvah and significance of the Shofar, in preparation for Rosh Hashana. Participants received a comprehensive overview of the laws of the Shofar, as well as spiritual insights that explored the deeper meaning behind the ritual. For many, the highlight of the night was the opportunity to make their own Shofar, in additional to the enjoyable atmosphere and camaraderie of the evening.

PRE-ROSH HASHANAH CHALLAH BAKE

Women and girls got together at all JRCC Branches in the week leading up to Rosh Hashana for the annual pre-Rosh Hashanah Challah Bake. Over 250 women gathered simultaneously just before Rosh Hashana at all JRCC branches to bake Challah together. According to Jewish tradition, when a group of women gathers to partake in this sacred tradition as one, it opens up the heavenly gates to their prayers, and draws blessing for the entire community – and it was a moving and powerful experience for all those who participated.