Purim 2026
דוד גודמן
Dear Community,
In these days of war and uncertainty, we hope you are finding some safe spaces for the body and the heart. If you feel you need support, please do not hesitate to reach out to the rabbis or to Natali Mendelson, chair of our Chessed Committee.
Israel Defense Forces have had significant achievements and we pray that this campaign will bring quiet and security to us and to the entire region. We also pray for the healing of all those who have been wounded, and our hearts are with the families that have lost their loved ones.
We are in a direct conflict with a regional power. It is especially important at this time to exercise extreme caution and to remember the mitzvah: “You shall carefully guard your lives.” We must follow Home Front Command directives and avoid any prohibited gatherings. Let us support one another and celebrate a meaningful Purim at home, with those closest to us.
According to current Home Front Command guidelines, gatherings are not permitted. If these guidelines do not change, we are preparing for the possibility that we will not be able to gather in the synagogue for the Megillah reading. Therefore, the Megillah will be broadcasted live on Zoom:
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Tuesday, 3.3 at 6:30 pm – Megillah reading
Join via: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87177042645 -
Wednesday, 4.3 at 8:30 am – Shacharit and Megillah reading
Same link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87177042645
It is important to note the rabbinic ruling from the COVID period that when there is a minyan physically present in the synagogue, those joining via Zoom are also considered part of the minyan.
You may also review additional sources regarding listening to the Megillah via Zoom in Rabbi David Golinkin’s responsum:
https://schechter.ac.il/article/listening-to-megillah-in-isolation/
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Community mishloach manot packages may be picked up on Wednesday, 4.3 between 9:30–11:00 am at the synagogue.
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Matanot la’evyonim (gifts to the poor) will be distributed that same day by the community rabbis. Contributions may be sent via Bit to Rabbi David at 054-585-8544. Please indicate “Matanot La’Evyonim” as the reason for transfer.
Purim is a day of feasting and joy. Yet before Purim, we observe the Fast of Esther — recalling the days when all Israel gathered in prayer for the success of an almost impossible mission. Today, all the more so, we must pray for protection and success in the hope for change throughout the region.
In honor of the Fast of Esther, a class with Rabbi David Goodman will be held tomorrow, 2.3 at 1:30 pm. It will be a time for learning, as well as sharing and reflection on Purim in the shadow of war.
Join here: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81590939863
Attached are photos from today in the community shelter and from the costume party held in the building’s protected space.
May this coming Purim bring to all of us “words of peace and truth.”
With much love,
Rabbis David and Amirit
