CONGREGATION BETH SHALOM WEST AND TAMIR SHARE THE WARMTH OF CHANUKAH
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2002
By Esther Kulik, Co-chair Congregation Beth Shalom West
Rabbi Finkelstein, Cantor Benlolo and the Tamir Choir
Our Chanukah celebration was enhanced this year when Beth Shalom West welcomed Tamir residents and their families to join in our Annual Congregational Chanukah Party. With the attendance of around 50, we had a wonderful time singing, mingling, and noshing on our favorite Chanukah treats.
Following the
greetings provided by Esther Kulik, co-chair of Beth Shalom West, fellow
musicians, Aviva Lightstone, Nathan Cepelinski and Isaac Muzikansky joined our
very own Cantor Daniel Benlolo for some light entertainment. The talented
quartet quickly captured everyone’s attention as they involved us all in a
sing along medley of our favorite Chanukah songs which included, 8 Days of
Chanukah, Light the Candles, Mi Y’malel, Light one Candle and Al Hanisim. The
room was filled with laughter and fun as we celebrated the Festival of Lights.
Leah Smith, Tamir’s
Judaic Program Coordinator prepared the agenda for the evening which featured
the newly formed Tamir Choir. Members of Tamir took turns recounting the Miracle
of Chanukah interspersed with the Tamir Choir singing their hearts to
traditional Chanukah songs such as: Oh Chanukah, I Have a Little Dreidle, and
S’vivon. The evening also included a group candle lighting, and an explanation
of the history and rituals of Chanukah. Leah
was delighted at how everyone enjoyed themselves and each other.
As a result, we discussed our mutual hope for future plans to co-sponsor
an event at Purim.
Rabbi Howard
Finkelstein was pleased to see how the membership of BSW welcomed Tamir and is
looking forward to occasions where we can collaborate again for other holiday
celebrations.
Having the Tamir residents celebrate Chanukah with us at our shul was indeed very gratifying. Many thanks to Cantor Daniel Benlolo and Leah Smith for organizing this very successful event, which will be fondly remembered as a warm and entertaining evening.
Copyright 2003 Beth Shalom West Synagogue. All Rights Reserved.
Last Updated – Sunday, January 5, 2003