Dear Friends:
This Shabbat is referred to across the Jewish world as
Shabbat HaChodesh
, the Shabbat of “the month.” We will be welcoming the Hebrew month of
Nisan
, and officially begin preparing ourselves to celebrate Passover.
There are many different ways that we prepare ourselves. For some of us, it involves deep cleaning our kitchens and our homes, vacuuming our cars, and trying to get rid of every last crumb of “chametz” (leavened bread products) from our lives, and making room for matzah and macaroons. Others of us might be contemplating some of the themes of the holiday, like freedom, and looking at the many different marginalized people still waiting for their exodus, or thinking about the metaphorical “chametz” of which we want to rid ourselves.
However and whatever it is that we do to prepare ourselves to celebrate Passover; it is my strong belief that in order for our celebration of the holiday to be meaningful, we need to be intentional with our preparation. Passover doesn’t just happen on its own. Facilitating and creating a worthwhile and impactful experience takes work and planning.
That’s why beginning with his
Shabbat HaChodesh
, there are lots of opportunities over the next two weeks at Tifereth Israel to help us get ourselves ready, for Passover. Whether it’s the upcoming Midrash Shabbat where we will discuss the many different Passovers in our time, the Passover Haggadah Comic Book workshop, the Torah School Model Seder or our Preschool Passover Performance, there is something for everyone. Over the next two Shabbats, I will also be teaching about traditions, and providing materials and resources for you take home to share with your families and around your Seder Table.
It is my hope that over the next few weeks, we can help one another prepare for the upcoming holiday, in a way in which we can all connect to and relish in the beauty that is Passover, and the many ways that celebrating the holiday can enrich our lives.
Shabbat Shalom
,
Rabbi Dorsch
