Sundown, March 16, marks the beginning of one of the most joyous yom tovs (holidays) on the Jewish calendar. Purim commemorates the miraculous story of Queen Esther and her cousin, Mordechai, and their triumph in saving the Jewish people from extinction at the hands of the evil Haman. During the day, leading up to the holiday, Jews partake in the Fast of Esther. However, as soon as night falls, the celebrating begins!
The main mitzvah (observance) of Purim is to listen to the Megillah (Book of Esther) twice; once in the evening, then again, the following morning. The other observances are to give charity to at least two poor people (or your synagogue), send two gifts (at minimum) of food (Shalos Manos) to at least one person and enjoy a festive Purim feast. Other time-honored customs include dressing up in costumes, eating Hamantaschen (three-cornered, filled pastries, resembling the hat Haman wore) and drinking alcoholic beverages until you “don’t know the difference between the evil Haman and the heroic Mordechai.”
As always, the Cruger Avenue Synagogue will be offering congregants and all members of the Bronx Jewish community a venue to fully observe and enjoy the holiday. There will be services and a Megillah reading on Wednesday evening, March 16, followed by a light “Break the Fast” snack, replete with live music performed by 20-year-old violin virtuoso Ethan Donn. The festivities really heat up on Thursday morning, March 17. Following morning services and a Megillah reading, our wildly popular, annual Purim Party kicks into gear. Savor lox and bagels, sushi, salads and many more delicacies. Every guest gets a gift of Shalos Manos to go along with an unforgettable Yom Tov experience. Of course, all activities are FREE of charge to all! May every Jew have “Ah Frelichen Purim”–a Happy Purim!
PURIM SCHEDULE:
Wednesday, March 16:
Fast of Esther Begins: 5:39 am
Mincha/Maariv/Megillah Services: 6:45 pm
Fast Ends: 7:31 pm
Thursday, March 17:
Shacharit Service: 10:00 am
Megillah Reading: 11:00 am
Party Time: 12 Noon
Cruger Avenue Synagogue 