Ecumenical group sing at Temple Beth Elohim
Cantorial soloist Robin Sills shares more on music: “Because I am in charge of the music program at Temple Beth Elohim in Brewster, I am always looking out for new and exciting ways to get the children and families involved through music. In our community we are very much involved with the other houses of worship in our area. Once a year the whole community of faith joins together in an ecumenical service to celebrate Thanksgiving. Through song and prayer we form a bond that has become an annual tradition. For Hanukkah, the children of our temple gather together to sing our favorite songs, which include ‘Hanukkah Oh Hanukkah,’ the ‘Dreydle Song,’ ‘How Many Candles?’ and the ‘Latke Song.’
“Each of our children brings an age-appropriate toy or useful gift to give to a child who is less fortunate. The most exciting moment comes when all the gifts are piled up and the kids can see how their generosity will benefit so many other children. That is what Hanukkah means to us at Temple Beth Elohim. We call these acts of kindness Tikun Olam (the healing of the world). This is the message we have embraced and will continue to practice in our daily lives.”
Temple Beth Elohim is located at 31 Mount Ebo Road North in Brewster. For more information, call (845) 279-4585 or visit www.templebethelohim.org.
Hanukkah happenings at Rhinebeck Jewish Center
Rabbi Hanoch and rebbetzin Tzivie Hecht of the Rhinebeck Jewish Center have some terrific Hanukkah events coming up. On Sunday, November 24 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., it’s Dreidel House, “a day of Hanukkah fun for the whole family!” Highlights include meeting Judah Maccabee, make-your-own donuts, a candlemaking workshop, a Hanukkah store, lots of new Hanukkah crafts and an olive oil workshop. Dreidel House takes place at the Starr Library, located at 68 West Market Street in Rhinebeck. The cost is $3 to $5 for crafts; the workshop is free.
On Monday, December 2, Hecht’s Tiny Tots presents My Hanukkah Five Senses: “Take part in the fun and new exciting program for young children from 0 to 4 years. We will explore the wonders of this great holiday through all of our five senses.” A $5 donation per family is suggested, and reservations are required.
The Contemporary Jewish Women’s Group hosts Miracle of the Oil, which takes place on Sunday, December 1 at 11 a.m.: “In honor of the miraculous oil of Hanukkah, stir up your own exotic blend of oil and fresh herbs for a fragrant display, cosmetic use or culinary delight. Top off with a Luscious Latke Bar.” All women are welcome to join the Contemporary Jewish Women’s Group regardless of background or affiliation.
To register for any of these programs or for more information, call (845) 876-7666 or visit www.rhinebeckjewishcenter.com.
Art & latkes in Lake Katrine
Debra Lundgren of Lomontville says, “Our congregation, Adat Chaim Messianic Synagogue, has an annual art show and celebration complete with latkes (sometimes even curry ones) on the Saturday during Hanukkah.” The art show takes place on Saturday, November 30 at 10 a.m., with a Shabbat service at 11 a.m., followed by latke Oneg.
The Adat Chaim Messianic Synagogue is located at 71 Old Kings Highway in Lake Katrine. For more information, call (845) 340-4344 or visit https://adatchaim.net.
In closing, I return you to Rabbi Kligler: “I would humbly suggest that folks make the effort simply to observe the holiday all eight nights. It is traditional to not work while the candles are burning, but simply to hang out together in the candlelight. This is an opportunity to spend 45 minutes with friends or family every night doing something pleasant together. That to me is a successful Hanukkah observance.”
Join the family! 
