ECLC Weekly Update 02/14/25
02/14/2025 09:53:48 AM
World Wide Wrap: Embracing Tradition with Open Arms
This past Sunday was a truly special day at the ECLC as we participated in the World Wide Wrap—a Talit and T'fillin workshop led by our dedicated rabbis, clergy, and VBS minyanim participants, including parents. This event always stirs deep emotions for me. Growing up in Israel, I experienced a separation in synagogues where women and men sit separately ina synagogue, far away from the Torah in "Ezrat Nashim" (Women's Section) or behind dividers. Such restrictions extended to the use of Talit and T'fillin, traditionally privileges reserved for men. My time as a Shlicha (counselor) at a Jewish sleepaway camp after my military service introduced me to a more open and equal form of Judaism that profoundly affected my personal Jewish journey. It is incredibly moving to now see our female students donning Talit and T'fillin, embracing their Judaism freely and proudly. It was beautiful so see many of our parents teahcing htier children how to warp T’filling and it was so beautiful and meaningful moment all all. The workshop concluded with a communal service and breakfast, fostering a sense of togetherness and joy among all attendees. Watching our 7th graders lead T'fillah for Tk-4th grade with Rabbi Yael filled me with immense pride, reinforcing why this new tradition, now in its third year, is one of my favorite events.
Tu B'Shvat: Celebrating Nature's Gifts and Connection to the Land of Israel
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On Tuesday, we celebrated Tu B'Shvat, the New Year for Trees, which symbolizes our connection to the Earth and marks the beginning of the agricultural cycle with the first blooms of the season. It's customary during Tu B'Shvat to enjoy dried fruits, a tradition that hails from times when Jews in the diaspora would eat fruits from the Holy Land. Nowadays, we also encourage tasting fresh fruits grown in Israel. Our classes engaged in a variety of activities, from crafting to cooking, to honor this day. We explored the "Seven Species" of the land - wheat, barley, dates, olives, pomegranates, figs, and grapes - which are particularly significant during this holiday. This holiday not only aligns with the natural cycle of agriculture but also offers a moment to reflect on our environmental responsibilities and the joys of nature. Look at our students marching and singing for Tu B’shvat! (Click the image to see a short video) |
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If you haven’t celebrated with your family yet, it’s not too late! Try serving fresh fruit after Shabbat dinner and blending white and red grape juice for your Kiddush cup. For ideas on hosting a family-style Tu B'Shvat Seder, click HERE. And here is a short video to enjoy with your family |
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Remember, there is no school this Sunday - Enjoy the long weekend, and thank you for being a part of our vibrant ECLC community! |
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