Rosh Hashanah came early for Emeritus Ocoee Senior Living residents

A dozen guests enjoyed a Rosh Hashanah celebration party at Emeritus Ocoee Senior Living on Thursday, Sept. 18. The event is one of many provided by The Jewish Pavilion for the benefit of seniors in long-term care facilities in the Orlando Metropolitan Area. These events are open to any who would like to attend.

The event began with a short Rosh Hashanah service including lighting of candles (battery operated due to fire regulations), and blessings over the bread, wine and apple slices. It concluded with hearing the blowing of the traditional shofar. Each guest was given a sampling plate that included apple slices to be dipped in honey, a slice of raisin challah bread, a piece of gefilte fish with a small cup of red horseradish, a dollop of chopped liver, a slice of traditional honey cake, and for the more adventurous, a few pieces of pickled herring. Many of the guests were tasting these foods for the first time – but enjoyed being exposed to new experiences.  Afterward, Lee Hoffman, a choral arts specialist visiting from California, entertained the group with singing and piano playing. 

Food for the party was donated by Vitas Hospice Care, TooJay's Original Gourmet Deli, and Publix Super Markets. Emeritus Life Enrichment Directors Betty Phillips and Chris Gerard facilitated the event. Pavilion Program Director Gloria Green and volunteer Jackie Benfeld are Winter Garden/Windermere residents.  

The Jewish Pavilion staff and volunteers ensure that seniors in long-term care are visited and have the opportunity to celebrate the Sabbath and the Jewish holidays. For more information about The Pavilion, see http://www.jewishpavilion.org or call 407-678-9363.