March 2020

Dear Friends,

There is so much happening in March, it’s hard to know where to begin!

I am particularly excited about our “Open Book Shabbat” on Saturday mornings for the month of March. We use the Siddur every week, but we can always use a refresher on what’s in it. On these three Saturday mornings, I’ll be teaching throughout the service, highlighting the history and meaning of some of our most important prayers.

I am also looking forward to our Havdallah celebration at the Framingham State University McAuliffe planetarium. As you know, Shabbat officially ends when we see three stars in the night sky, and on March 14 we will see them up close.

And most importantly, Purim. I. Love. Purim. The final piece of my costume just arrived in the mail, and it is perfect. (What is it? A surprise, that’s what!) Don’t be fooled, Purim shenanigans are not just for children. There are four mitzvot (commandments) of Purim, and adults are just as obligated as children!

1) send mishloach manot, gifts of food goodies, to friends and family.

2) give charitable gifts to those in need, typically on this holiday we focus on giving to causes that combat hunger and poverty.

3) hear the Megillah

4) celebrate with a festive meal

Everyone is encouraged to join us Monday evening to hear the Megillah, eat some hamentaschen, and of course, enter our costume contest. There are kids’ prizes for the cutest and most creative costume, adult prizes for the funniest and most creative, and a prize for the best group as well. The Ritual Committee already has a fabulous group costume planned, so get your triangle-shaped thinking-caps on and start planning yours!

Rabbi Poirier