PJ Library, Shalom Families learn about Rosh Hashanah

PJ Library Families were treated to story time led by Susan Bernstein, Temple Israel's new congregational life coordinator. The story imparts a great lesson about our responsibility in making the world a better place. 

The story says: On the birthday of the world, all of God's creatures pass before Him as He asks whether each has been the best giraffe, or bee, or child they could be, helping to make the world a better place.

Later in the morning, Rabbi Neely blew the shofar and explained the meaning of the different blasts to the children. Apple stamps were used to make Rosh Hashanah cards for family members. And snacks of apples, honey, apple juice and graham crackers were munched on by all in attendance.

PJ Library helps grow our children's values with Jewish concepts. It ensures that they make Judaism second nature, instead of second best. It nurtures relationships to Jewish tradition, learning, beliefs and practices. The beauty of the PJ Library is that it creates Jewish memories by bringing Jewish content to the recipients' homes. With beautifully written and colorful books, parents read to their children stories of treasured Jewish values like kindness, respect, and tolerance as well as the Jewish holidays sparking an interest in the child and a sense of belonging.

JFGO then magnifies the effect of the books by providing relevant community programs and partnerships with our synagogues and agencies. The Jewish Federation was excited to collaborate with Temple Israel for this wonderful event.

PJ Library is part of the Shalom Families initiative that is a program locally funded through JFGO. To learn more about Shalom Families please visit, http://www.jfgo.org.