Author Archives: Cruger Synagogue

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 theContinue reading “PURIM JOY”

Chanukah, The Festival of Lights, begins this year on Sunday night, November 26. This joyous holiday commemorates the miracle of a small group of dedicated Jews–the Macabees–defeating the superhuman strength of the Greek army and reclaiming the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. When they attempted to kindle the Menorah in the Temple, all they found wasContinue reading “CHANUKAH, OH CHANUKAH PARTY”

The last two days of Sukkot are distinct holidays in their own right. Shemini Atzeret (The Eighth Day of Assembly) is the last day we eat in the Sukkah. On Simchat Torah, we finish the last Parshah (chapter) of the Torah and begin reading again from the beginning. Both days are considered most joyous inContinue reading “SHEMINI ATZERET & SIMCHAT TORAH”

Beginning Monday evening, September 20, Jews usher in the holiday of Sukkot (Festival of Booths). It marks a most joyous time of year, culminating in the holiday of Simchat Torah (September 29). Sukkot celebrates the 40 years of Jews wandering in the desert, and being protected by G-d, dwelling in tents during the Exodus. We’reContinue reading “THE JOY OF SUKKOT”

As the Day of Atonement looms, we invite you to join us for free services. On the most important day on the Jewish calendar, it is customary to spend the day in synagogue; to hear “Kol Nidre” at night, then pray for forgiveness during the day. Please keep in mind the five restrictions called forContinue reading “YOM KIPPUR SERVICES”

As the High Holy Days approach, and the Almighty judges each one of us, deciding whether we will have a blessed New Year or not, our sages tell us that three things avert the severe decree: repentence, prayer and charity! The first two are between you and G-d. However, by giving charity to a religiousContinue reading “PLEASE DONATE!”

The sound of the shofar once again beckons, calling all Jews to come in unison before the Almighty and pray to be inscribed in the Book of Life for a prosperous New Year. This year, Rosh Hashanah begins on Monday evening, September 6, and concludes Wednesday evening, September 8. For well over 100 years, theContinue reading “HIGH HOLY DAYS 5782 (2021-22)”

The Shabbos before Tisha B’Av is referred to as Shabbat Chazon (The Shabbos of Vision). Our sages believe that on this Friday nught, while we’re sleepimg, our neshamas (souls) are shown a vision of the third Temple. Tisha B’Av begins this Saturday nught, July 17, when Shabbos ends. Pease join us for services Friday night,Continue reading “SHABBAT CHAZON”

Please join us on Shavuot, as we celebrate the greatest moment in history–G-d giving the Torah to the Jewish people! It is incumbent on all Jews to hear the reading of the Ten Commandments, just as every Jew did on Mount Sinai when the Torah was given. It’s also traditional to eat dairy foods onContinue reading “CELEBRATE SHAVUOT!”

Experience Shabbat as it was meant to be experienced! We offer services Friday evening, Saturday morning and Saturday evening. Friday night, after services, partake in a free community Shabbat dinner. Eat, drink, sing and learn with new and old friends. Saturday afternoon, following services, we provide a sumptuous kiddush lunch. Friday night services begin atContinue reading “THE JOY OF SHABBAT”