It is tradition here at the J for our Early Childhood students and several brave staff to dress in costume, parade around and have a fun time. Other Purim traditions include games, noise making, hamantaschen eating, and mask making. With...
Read PostAs the Jewish New Year approaches, I wanted to highlight a unique and meaningful Rosh Hashanah tradition and invite fellow St. Louisans to make it local, fun, and meaningful. Tashlich, a centuries-old Jewish tradition observed during...
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The J is proud to offer two fun and educational family programs to celebrate Passover this Spring. Don’t miss out to mark this festive Jewish holiday! On Monday, March 27, join other families with children ages six and older at Pottery...
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Contributed by Rabbi Brad Horwitz Director, Jewish Engagement & Adult Programs One of the traditions associated with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is the blowing of the shofar, a ram’s horn. Some say that this ritual is to...
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When the Hanukkah candles are lit this year once again, Jews around the world will be commemorating two miracles. The first miracle is a miracle of might. A small band of Jewish fighters, led by Judah the Maccabee and his family were...
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In ancient Israel society, if an individual Israelite (man or woman) who was not part of the priestly caste wanted to live a more holy life and have a deeper spiritual connection to God, he/she could take the vow of the Nazirite. The...
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One of the more popular customs associated with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is the eating of apples and honey. This is to symbolize hopes for a sweet new year. It is also fitting for the beginning of the fall season when several...
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One of the liturgical poems in the Haggadah is called Dayenu which means “it would have been enough.” With its repetitive chorus and upbeat melody, the Dayenu is often a fan favorite sung during the seder. This year I ask you to join me in...
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It always strikes me as odd that this holiday occurs during the middle of winter. It would seem more appropriate to celebrate the birthday of the trees during any other time of the year when nature’s beauty and bounty are more visible...
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Hanukkah is often referred to as the Festival of Lights. We add one candle to the Hanukkah menorah each of the eight nights of Hanukkah to commemorate the miraculous victory of the Macabees as well as the miracle of the small cruse of oil that...
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