Rabbinic Reflection: Rabbi Eliza McCarroll
Although we haven’t even gotten through Tu BiShvat yet, I’ve already got Purim on the brain.
This is specifically due to the mitzvah of “matanot la’evyonim”, or giving to those in need.
This tradition comes from the Megillah, the Book of Esther itself, which states:
לַעֲשׂ֣וֹת אוֹתָ֗ם יְמֵי֙ מִשְׁתֶּ֣ה וְשִׂמְחָ֔ה וּמִשְׁלֹ֤חַ מָנוֹת֙ אִ֣ישׁ לְרֵעֵ֔הוּ וּמַתָּנ֖וֹת לָֽאֶבְיֹנִֽים׃
They were to observe them (the days of Purim) as days of feasting and merrymaking, and as an occasion for sending gifts to one another and presents to the poor.
Here at Holy Blossom, we have two very special ways in which we are contributing to alleviating needs in our city as we approach Purim.
The first is for our Wisdom Generation, with Dorot presenting a program on “Tikkun Olam in Toronto” on Tuesday, February 18, at 11 am. We are delighted to welcome the CEO of Ve’ahavta, Cari Kozierok, who will share about the amazing work of her organization and how all generations of the family can get involved.
Additionally, as part of our Purim programming, we will be collecting a series of items which will be used to assemble care packages for our Out of the Cold guests. Families will then have the opportunity to assemble the care packages on the evening of Purim itself, March 13, at 6.30 pm. You can register here – we’ll be making macaroni groggers, too, and a light pizza dinner will be provided before Megillah reading!
Items can be donated to the Janice Rotman Tzedakah Centre, which is located at our Ava Road entrance. We are looking for the following, in new condition: toothbrushes (individually packaged), toothpaste, deodorant, socks, scarves, and hats.
Whilst it is always a good time to perform mitzvot and to give back to others who need it most, in our Jewish calendar, it is truly the time of year.
We hope you will join in our efforts, and also, join in the fun!
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