KIHEI - The Jewish Congregation of Maui will celebrate the festival of Purim after sunset Saturday, at 8 p.m. The event is open to all.
Purim celebrates the Jewish people surviving the genocidal plans of the Persian tyrant, Haman, who wished to annihilate all the Jews of Persia and its 127 provinces.
There are five commandments that the Jewish people observe that day, to:
* Hear the reading of the Megillah, or Scroll of Esther.
* Send mishloach manot, or gifts of food.
* Give gifts to the poor.
* Say Al Hanisim, a special prayer acknowledging the miracle of the day.
* Have a festive meal.
The students of the Jewish School of Maui will read the Megillah for the community. At 9:30 a.m. Sunday, there will be Shacharit morning service, followed by a traditional reading of the Megillah by Rabbi David Glickman. In the holiday spirit, come in costume and bring mishloach manot, or small baskets of food, to give to friends and visitors.
Traditional Purim pastries, called Hamantashen/Oznei Haman, will be provided for everyone to enjoy.
In observance of the directive to help the needy on Purim, the Jewish congregation will collect packaged and canned foods for the Maui Food Bank until March 26. Items may be dropped off at the synagogue. Recommended items include canned meat and tuna, canned fruits and vegetables, canned meals and soups with protein, cereals, rice and pasta. The Maui Food Bank also welcomes financial contributions.
The Jewish Congregation at Beit Shalom Synagogue is at 634 Alulike St. in Kihei, behind the Maui Lu Resort and on the corner of Kaonoulu and Alulike streets.
For more information, call the office at 874-5397 or send e-mail to jcom@hawaiibiz.rr.com.
