Is Passover 7 or 8 days?
When does Pesach end? Why do some calendars say it ends after seven days and others after eight? Most Reform Jewish communities celebrate Passover for seven days, but the history is complicated.
At a Jewish wedding, why does the couple stand under a canopy?
The canopy under which Jewish couples stand when they are married is called a chuppah . The chuppah represents the new home a couple establishes through their marriage.
How do I talk to my kids about the current situation in Israel?
A few years ago, an Israeli rabbinic student, Alona Nir, was visiting with Reform Jewish teen leaders. Alona showed the teens a short video of Israeli school children participating in an air raid drill. The lyrics were written by a social worker and the song is taught to young children
Is there a Jewish prayer that can be said on behalf of one’s country?
Yes, Jews always participate fully in the life of the country of which they are citizens. Many congregations include a prayer on behalf of the country in Shabbat services. This prayer, from Mishkan T'filah, is especially appropriate as the United States and Canada celebrate their independence. O Guardian of life
I'll be traveling soon. Is there a Jewish prayer I can say before I embark on my trip?
Judaism offers us the opportunity to bless both our everyday moments and special occasions.
My child is going to sleepaway camp. Is there a prayer or blessing that I can say?
Sleep away camp is a wonderful experience for children. It is an opportunity for them to grow, learn new things, and become more independent.
I have heard that in Jewish tradition, parents are responsible for teaching their children to swim. Is that true?
The Talmud (Kiddushin 29a) outlines fathers’ responsibilities to their sons.
I’ve been invited to an aufruf for a friend's wedding. What is that?
Aufruf (pronounced "owf-roof," or more colloquially "oof-roof ") is a German word meaning "calling up" and refers to a synagogue celebration on the Shabbat preceding the wedding.
What is Confirmation and what is its connection to Shavuot?
Confirmation is a Reform-originated ceremony for teens that is tied to the Jewish holiday of Shavuot. It constitutes an individual and group affirmation of commitment to the Jewish people. Confirmation, one of the “youngest” Jewish lifecycle ceremonies, began less than 200 years ago.
Why do we observe Lag BaOmer with bonfires?
Lag BaOmer is the 33rd day of the counting of the Omer.
Why is it customary to eat dairy foods on Shavuot?
The origin of this custom is unknown.