MRJ's
Men and Observance
Understanding the need to fulfill the spiritual and religious needs of
Reform Jewish men, MRJ initiated its "Men and Observance" series. This
highly successful series details men's role in major Jewish life cycle
events and those rituals that are key to the enjoyment and understanding
of the Jewish holidays. Written in a user friendly and educational format,
the "Men and Observance" series is ideal for both local brotherhood programming
and personal fulfillment. In an ongoing effort to cultivate Jewish literacy
and awareness among our affiliates, MRJ presents its "Men and Observance"
series.
Men
and Shabbat
This first module in the observance series details men's roles in the
weekly celebration of Shabbat. Rabbi Victor Appel, author of this module,
stresses the importance of men's role in the Shabbat experience. By fostering
group discussion, participation, and personal growth, Men and Shabbat's
user-friendly format contains Hebrew, English, and transliteration. Shabbat,
the "island in time", becomes an experience that men can share with their
families and each other.
Men
and the Holidays
The second group of modules deals with the major holidays in
the Jewish year:
- Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Passover - These modules, prepared by MRJ Rabbininc Intern Diana Monhiet, mirror the Men and Shabbat Series as they detail the men's role in each holiday. Rosh Hashanah : Exploring the symbols, prayers, and meanings of the Jewish New Year, the Rosh Hashanah module cultivates an appreciation for the holiday which marks the beginning of a one of the most sacred times in Jewish religious life.
- Yom Kippur - The most solemn and important day in religious Jewish life is examined in the Yom Kippur module. By exploring the rituals and prayers of the "Day of Atonement", this module examines the meaning behind Jewish ways of repentance, forgiveness, and one's relationship with his fellow human being.
- Passover (Pesach) - The most widely celebrated of Jewish holidays is examined in the Passover module of the observance series. Analyzing the rituals and observance of the Passover Seder, the abstention from bread products, and the ethical issues concerning slavery and freedom are the hallmarks of this module. This module fosters groups participation and education.
