TRADITION! TRADITION. So goes the song from Fiddler on the Roof. Judaism is steeped in Tradition. We all have some traditions that have been part of our family for a few years or for generations. Even though my children are now grown and have children of their own, we must play dreidle after lighting the Hanukkah candles when we are all together. Everyone gets their gelt (either pennies or candy) and we play several rounds. We’ve done since the girls were small and continue to do today with their children.

This coming Sunday morning the 3rd – 7th graders and their parents will gather together to learn about and share traditions. For the most part, we Jews celebrate our holidays in the home. We light candles on Shabbat, have a nice dinner before Rosh HaShanah, have or attend a seder as well as many other ritual options. Some people come to Judaism later in life and have no history with the celebrations. During our workshop we will offer many different opportunities to learn as a family or as individuals. Participants will be able to learn about the tallit, traditional kabbalat Shabbat, life cycle traditions, Hanukkah traditions, kashrut, mezzuzot, genealogy, blessings and home traditions. Judaism puts a strong emphasis on social action so we will have a few social action projects that families can do. All in all it should be a wonderful morning of learning and fun.

I am asking everyone to write out a tradition that is part of their family. It can revolved around a Jewish holiday, a life cycle event (such as birthdays), or something they do every week or even every day. I know some people have beautiful bedtime rituals that have become tradition. We will put together all of the traditions and put together a book to share with all of our congregants. Even if you do not have a child in the Hebrew school, please email your favorite tradition so it can be included.