We are commanded in the Torah to “…Impress them upon your children” (Deuteronomy 6:4-9). Who is “we” and what is “them” you might ask. “We” should be the partnership that is formed between parents, clergy and educators to help our children learn to live a Jewish life. “Them” are the Jewish values and ethics we hope to pass along to our children. Living a Jewish life goes beyond learning to read Hebrew and know the order of the holidays during the year. It means recognizing ethics and values inherent in Jewish tradition. “We” are charged with passing along these ethics and values to the generations that follow us.
There are many paths to life long Jewish learning, beginning with things learned in the home. The process continues when we make a choice to become affiliated with a synagogue and participate in the mode of education provided by the synagogue. Part of our curriculum at TKC (and at many other synagogues) is the concept of “Family Education Day”. Our goal is to have all of our families participate. Our hope is that each family takes away something from the experience which enhances the way they approach Jewish living.
Many people ask, “Why should we participate in Family Education Days?”
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Because we ask you to participate and (as your mother would say) it’s good for you!
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So your child won’t feel left out
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Because you like doing things with your child
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So you can check out the teacher and the other families
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Because you like learning along with your child
- Because “it takes a village to raise a child”; this is a way to create a village
Family Education Days:
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Build on the partnership between families and the synagogue community
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Enhance Jewish education for students and their families
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Help parents become a role model for students
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Create an opportunity for community building with other families
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Assist parents in shaping the Jewish life of their children
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Encourage ongoing Jewish Education and lifelong Jewish learning
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Allow parents to tell their “Jewish Story”
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Help to create Jewish memories
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Enhance Jewish experience of students and their families
Traditionally, this month we focus on giving thanks. I am especially thankful I have a job which is rewarding and challenging (I am seldom, if ever, bored). I am thankful for all of the talented and creative people with whom I am privileged to work. I am thankful I have my health and that my family is healthy. I am thankful for my family. I am thankful that I am a grandmother – although I wish my grandson lived closer so that I could spoil him rotten!! I am thankful that part of the liturgy includes a prayer of thanksgiving – the Hoda’ah, which reminds us to give thanks for all the things we sometimes take for granted. I am thankful I have a place to worship. I am grateful for the wonderful community which is Temple Kehillat Chaim.
I wish you all a bountiful feast and good friends and family with whom to share Thanksgiving!
B’Shalom!
Catherine Rosing
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