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Jewish Calendar Chabad of Overland Park & Leawood from www.kansasjewish.comIntroductionAs we enter the year 2023, it's important for members of the Jewish community to be aware of the upcoming holidays and celebrations. For those who follow the Chabad tradition, the Jewish holiday calendar is an essential guide to observing these special occasions throughout the year. In this article, we will explore the Chabad holiday calendar for 2023 and provide insights into the customs and traditions associated with each holiday. The Jewish New Year: Rosh HashanahThe first major holiday in the Chabad calendar is Rosh Hashanah, which falls on September 20th and 21st in 2023. This is the Jewish New Year and a time for reflection, prayer, and repentance. It is customary to attend synagogue services and hear the sound of the shofar, a ram's horn blown in a specific pattern. Families also gather for festive meals and share sweet foods, such as apples dipped in honey, to symbolize a sweet new year. The Day of Atonement: Yom KippurAfter Rosh Hashanah, the next major holiday in the Chabad calendar is Yom Kippur, which takes place on September 29th in 2023. This is the Day of Atonement, a time for fasting, prayer, and introspection. It is customary to attend synagogue services throughout the day and ask for forgiveness for past sins. Many people also light candles in memory of loved ones who have passed away. The Festival of Booths: SukkotFollowing Yom Kippur, the next holiday on the Chabad calendar is Sukkot, which runs from October 4th to 11th in 2023. This is the Festival of Booths, a time when people build temporary booths or huts, called sukkahs, and eat their meals inside them. It is a joyous holiday that celebrates the harvest season and the Jewish people's journey through the wilderness after leaving Egypt. Rejoicing in the Law: Simchat TorahThe final holiday of the Sukkot season is Simchat Torah, which takes place on October 12th in 2023. This is a day when Jews around the world celebrate the completion of the annual reading of the Torah, the Jewish Bible. It is customary to dance with the Torah scrolls and sing joyous songs, as well as attend special synagogue services. The Festival of Lights: HanukkahIn December 2023, Jews around the world will celebrate Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, which runs from December 10th to 18th. This holiday commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem after a successful revolt against the Greek empire. It is customary to light candles on a menorah, eat fried foods like latkes and sufganiyot, and play games with a dreidel, a spinning top with Hebrew letters on it. The New Year for Trees: Tu B'ShvatIn January 2024, Jews will celebrate Tu B'Shvat, the New Year for Trees, which falls on January 31st. This is a time to appreciate the natural world and the importance of trees in Jewish tradition. It is customary to eat fruits native to Israel, such as figs, pomegranates, and dates, and to plant trees in honor of the holiday. The Festival of Lots: PurimIn March 2024, Jews will celebrate Purim, the Festival of Lots, which runs from March 14th to 15th. This holiday commemorates the salvation of the Jewish people from a plot to destroy them in ancient Persia. It is customary to dress up in costumes, give gifts of food to friends and neighbors, and read the biblical Book of Esther. The Passover Celebration: PesachIn April 2024, Jews around the world will celebrate Pesach, the Passover holiday, which runs from April 14th to 22nd. This is a time to remember the Jewish people's liberation from slavery in Egypt and their journey to the Promised Land. It is customary to eat matzah, unleavened bread, and to hold a festive Seder meal, where the story of the Exodus is retold. The Giving of the Law: ShavuotThe final holiday on the Chabad calendar for 2023 is Shavuot, which takes place on June 3rd and 4th. This holiday celebrates the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai and the Jewish people's covenant with God. It is customary to attend synagogue services and study the Torah all night long. Many people also eat dairy foods, such as cheesecake and blintzes, in honor of the holiday. ConclusionThe Chabad holiday calendar for 2023 is full of meaningful and joyous celebrations that reflect the richness of Jewish tradition and culture. Whether you are a long-time member of the Jewish community or just learning about these holidays for the first time, we hope this guide has provided helpful insights and information to enhance your celebration of these special occasions. ...

When is Passover 2023? Dates, meaning behind the Jewish festival and from inews.co.ukThe Jewish Calendar and Holidays The Jewish calendar follows a lunar cycle, and each month begins with the new moon. The year consists of 12 or 13 months, depending on the length of the year. Jewish holidays are celebrated according to this calendar, and they are an integral part of Jewish life and tradition. High Holidays The Jewish year begins with Rosh Hashanah, which falls on September 6, 2023. This is the Jewish New Year, and it is a time of introspection and reflection. Ten days later, on September 15, 2023, Yom Kippur is observed. This is the Day of Atonement, and it is the holiest day of the Jewish year. It is a time for fasting, prayer, and repentance. Sukkot Sukkot begins on the evening of September 20, 2023, and lasts for seven days. This holiday commemorates the time when the Israelites lived in temporary shelters in the desert after leaving Egypt. It is also a harvest festival, and it is customary to build a sukkah, a temporary hut, and eat meals in it during the holiday. Hanukkah Hanukkah begins on the evening of December 2, 2023, and lasts for eight days. This holiday commemorates the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem after it was desecrated by the Greeks. It is also known as the Festival of Lights, and it is customary to light the menorah, a candelabrum with nine branches, during the holiday. Purim Purim falls on March 1, 2024, and it is a holiday that celebrates the salvation of the Jewish people in ancient Persia. It is customary to read the Megillah, the story of Esther, during the holiday. It is also customary to dress up in costumes and give gifts of food to friends and family. Passover Passover begins on the evening of April 21, 2024, and lasts for seven or eight days. This holiday commemorates the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt. It is customary to hold a Seder, a festive meal, on the first two nights of the holiday. During the Seder, the story of the exodus is retold, and it is customary to eat matzah, unleavened bread. Shavuot Shavuot falls on June 9, 2024, and it commemorates the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. It is customary to stay up all night studying Torah on the first night of the holiday. It is also customary to eat dairy foods during the holiday. Tisha B'Av Tisha B'Av falls on August 4, 2024, and it is a day of mourning for the Jewish people. It commemorates the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem, as well as other tragedies that have befallen the Jewish people throughout history. Conclusion Jewish holidays are an important part of Jewish life and tradition. They provide an opportunity for reflection, celebration, and community. Whether you are in Israel or anywhere else in the world, these holidays are a chance to connect with your heritage and with the Jewish people as a whole. So mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate! ...

Dress modestly and get ice cream! The Times of Israel from www.timesofisrael.com<!DOCTYPE html>Jewish Holidays in NYC Public SchoolsOverviewIn recent years, there has been a growing debate about whether or not Jewish holidays should be recognized as official school holidays in New York City. The issue has gained significant attention from the media, parents, and educators alike, as the city's public school system continues to grapple with issues of diversity and inclusivity. The Current SituationCurrently, the New York City Department of Education recognizes several major Jewish holidays as non-attendance days for students and staff. These holidays include Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Passover. However, some members of the Jewish community feel that this recognition does not go far enough, and that additional holidays should be included. The Arguments ForProponents of recognizing more Jewish holidays argue that it would help to promote greater understanding and inclusivity within the school system. They point out that New York City has a large Jewish population, and that recognizing additional holidays would be a way to acknowledge and celebrate this diversity. They also argue that recognizing more holidays would help to reduce absenteeism among Jewish students and staff, who may currently feel pressure to choose between their religious observances and their academic responsibilities. The Arguments AgainstOpponents of recognizing more Jewish holidays argue that doing so would be impractical and unfair to other religious groups. They point out that there are many different religious and cultural groups represented in the city's public schools, and that recognizing additional holidays for one group could set a precedent for others to demand the same. They also argue that recognizing additional holidays could disrupt the school calendar and create logistical challenges for families and staff. Possible CompromisesSome experts have suggested that a possible compromise could be to create a rotating schedule of non-attendance days that would include a variety of religious holidays, including Jewish holidays. This would help to promote inclusivity and reduce absenteeism among all religious groups, while also minimizing disruptions to the school calendar. Others have suggested that schools could offer special programs or activities on Jewish holidays, so that students who choose to observe them could still participate in educational and enrichment opportunities. ConclusionThe debate over recognizing Jewish holidays in New York City public schools is complex and multi-faceted. While there are passionate arguments on both sides, it is clear that any decision must take into account the needs and perspectives of all members of the community. As the city continues to grow and change, it will be important for educators and policymakers to work together to create a school system that is inclusive, respectful, and equitable for all. ...

Historia de la Semana Santa ¿qué se conmemora cada día? from okdiario.comIntroduction La Semana Santa is a religious festival celebrated by Christians around the world to commemorate the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This festival is celebrated every year during the week leading up to Easter Sunday. Although the celebrations vary from country to country, the essence of the festival remains the same – to remember the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and to celebrate his resurrection. Origin of Semana Santa The origin of Semana Santa dates back to the early days of Christianity when the followers of Jesus Christ held religious ceremonies to commemorate his death and resurrection. The tradition of Semana Santa was first introduced in Spain in the 16th century and has since spread to other parts of the world. Celebrations in Spain In Spain, Semana Santa is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm. The streets are decorated with colorful banners and processions are held throughout the week. The processions are led by Nazarenos, who are dressed in long robes and pointed hoods. They carry candles and crosses and walk in silence to show their respect for Jesus Christ. Celebrations in Latin America In Latin America, Semana Santa is celebrated with a mix of religious and cultural traditions. In Mexico, for example, the festival is celebrated with parades, music, and dance. The streets are decorated with flowers, and people carry statues of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary. In Brazil, the festival is celebrated with traditional food and music. Symbolism of Semana Santa The symbols of Semana Santa are deeply rooted in Christian tradition. The cross symbolizes the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, while the crown of thorns represents his suffering. The white robes worn by Nazarenos symbolize purity and the hoods represent humility and penitence. Importance of Semana Santa Semana Santa is an important festival for Christians around the world. It is a time to reflect on the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and to renew one's faith in God. The festival also brings people together and strengthens the bonds of community. Conclusion In conclusion, Semana Santa is a festival that is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion by Christians around the world. It is a time to remember the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and to celebrate his resurrection. Whether you celebrate Semana Santa with parades, processions, or simply by attending church, the message of the festival remains the same – to love and serve one another as Jesus Christ did. ...

Parkersburg Lions Club conducts Easter egg hunt for visually impaired from www.newsandsentinel.comIntroduction Easter is just around the corner and everyone is excited about the festivities. One of the most popular traditions associated with Easter is the Easter egg hunt. It’s a fun-filled activity for children and adults alike. In recent years, there has been a trend of using large eggs for the Easter egg hunt. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this trend and the benefits of using large eggs. Why Large Eggs? The use of large eggs for Easter egg hunts has become increasingly popular in recent years. The main reason behind this trend is that large eggs are easier to spot and collect. They also provide a greater challenge for older children and adults, making the activity more engaging and exciting. Benefits of Large Eggs Using large eggs for Easter egg hunts has several benefits. Firstly, they are easier to spot, making it more fun for children. Secondly, larger eggs can hold more treats and goodies, making them more exciting to find. Finally, the use of large eggs adds an element of surprise and challenge to the activity. Where to Find Large Eggs? Large Easter eggs can be found at most local stores and supermarkets. They come in a variety of colors and designs, so you can choose the ones that best suit your needs. You can also order them online if you prefer a wider variety of options. How to Prepare Large Eggs for Easter Egg Hunt? Preparing large eggs for an Easter egg hunt is easy. Simply fill them with treats and goodies of your choice and hide them in the designated area. You can also decorate the eggs with stickers or paint to make them more festive and colorful. Conclusion In conclusion, using large eggs for Easter egg hunts is a fun and exciting trend that is gaining popularity. They are easier to spot, hold more treats, and add an element of surprise to the activity. So, this year, why not try using large eggs for your Easter egg hunt and see how much fun you can have? ...

Join the Fun An Easter Egg Hunt Near You! easter egg hunt near me from www.skyplusnews.comIntroduction Easter is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with an Easter egg hunt? Luckily, there are plenty of options for local Easter egg hunts near you. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly event or something more challenging, there's an Easter egg hunt for everyone. Family-Friendly Easter Egg Hunts If you're looking for a fun and easy Easter egg hunt for the whole family, there are plenty of options available. Many local parks and community centers host family-friendly Easter egg hunts, complete with games, prizes, and of course, lots of eggs. Check with your local community center or park district to see what events they have planned. Challenging Easter Egg Hunts If you're up for a challenge, there are plenty of Easter egg hunts that are designed to be more difficult. These hunts often require some problem-solving skills and may even involve clues or riddles to solve. Check with your local escape room or puzzle room to see if they have any Easter-themed events planned. Adult Easter Egg Hunts Who says Easter egg hunts are just for kids? Many bars and restaurants host adult Easter egg hunts, complete with prizes like gift cards, free drinks, and even cash. Check with your favorite local bar or restaurant to see if they have any events planned. Eco-Friendly Easter Egg Hunts If you're looking for a more eco-friendly option, consider attending an Easter egg hunt that uses eco-friendly eggs. These eggs are typically made from recycled materials and can be reused year after year. Check with your local environmental organization or community center to see if they have any events planned. Virtual Easter Egg Hunts If you're unable to attend an in-person Easter egg hunt, consider participating in a virtual Easter egg hunt. These hunts can be done from the comfort of your own home and often involve searching for virtual eggs on a website or app. Check with your favorite online community or social media platform to see if they have any virtual Easter egg hunt events planned. Conclusion No matter what type of Easter egg hunt you're looking for, there's sure to be something available near you. From family-friendly events to challenging hunts for adults, there's an Easter egg hunt for everyone. Check with your local community center, park district, or favorite bar or restaurant to see what events they have planned for this Easter season. ...

Baby GUND My First Easter Basket Playset Stuffed Plush, 5 pieces from www.walmart.comThe Perfect Gift for Easter 2023 Easter is a time for celebration and joy, especially for the little ones who love to hunt for colorful eggs and indulge in sweet treats. This year, treat your child to a special surprise with the My First Easter Basket Playset – a fun-filled adventure that promises to bring endless hours of imaginative play. A Playset That Inspires Creativity The My First Easter Basket Playset is designed to encourage creativity and imagination. It comes with a variety of toys and accessories that your child can use to create their own unique Easter story. From a cute little bunny to colorful eggs and a basket, this playset has everything your child needs to bring their Easter dreams to life. Safe and Durable As a parent, you want to ensure that your child is playing with toys that are safe and durable. That's why the My First Easter Basket Playset is made with high-quality materials that are safe for kids. The toys are also durable enough to withstand rough and tumble play, so you can be sure that your child will enjoy them for years to come. Perfect for Both Indoor and Outdoor Play Whether your child prefers to play indoors or outdoors, the My First Easter Basket Playset is perfect for both. The toys are easy to clean and can be used in a variety of settings, making them ideal for playdates, family gatherings, and even solo playtime. A Great Way to Teach Your Child About Easter The My First Easter Basket Playset is not only a fun toy, but it's also a great way to teach your child about the meaning behind Easter. Through play, your child can learn about the Easter bunny, eggs, and other traditional Easter symbols. This playset is a great way to introduce your child to the holiday in a fun and engaging way. A Gift That Keeps on Giving The My First Easter Basket Playset is a gift that keeps on giving. Your child will love playing with it year after year, and it's a great way to create lasting memories. This playset is also a great gift idea for birthdays and other special occasions. Get Your My First Easter Basket Playset Today If you're looking for a fun and engaging Easter gift for your child, look no further than the My First Easter Basket Playset. It's a toy that inspires creativity, is safe and durable, and is perfect for both indoor and outdoor play. Order yours today and get ready for endless hours of imaginative play! ...