KA Community Corner

Archived Articles From Past Weeks

Shalom, Kol Ami!

As we enter the month of Kislev, the excitement for Chanukah fills the air! This year, the Festival of Lights begins on Christmas night—a rare and special overlap that I can’t recall happening in recent memory. Chanukah will brighten our homes and hearts through the secular New Year and the start of Kwanzaa, offering us an opportunity to reflect on the diversity and unity that make this season so joyous.

In the spirit of Judah Maccabee and the miracles of Chanukah, let us rededicate ourselves to bringing light into the world. Just as the Maccabees stood strong to preserve their faith and traditions, we too can embrace the values of resilience, hope, and togetherness. As we light our chanukiot for eight beautiful nights, may we remember that each candle adds a little more light to a world that can always use more kindness.

November and December may be short months for Kol Yeladim, but they have been full of meaningful moments, with even more to come!

• Todah Rabbah to Rabbi Chaya and Mrs. Shaina for an engaging Shalom Yeladim program about tzedakah. Seeing our youngest learners explore the joy of giving was truly inspiring.
• Our second Kol Mishpacha program focused on the Hospitality of Abraham and Sarah, welcoming angels into their tent. Families acted out skits, debated, and learned the importance of this timeless mitzvah. Thank you to Mrs. Jenn for leading Junior Congregation and to Rabbi Blatt for enriching our learning after a delicious shared lunch! Mark your calendars for our next Kol Mishpacha event on January 25, 2025.
• In our classes, the students have been diving deeper into their prayers and, of course, preparing for the joys of Chanukah!

Speaking of Chanukah, get ready for an unforgettable celebration!
Join us for our Congregational Chanukah Party on Sunday, December 29th, at 5 PM.

We’ll have:

• Maccabee-style games and challenges to test your courage and creativity.
• Delicious food prepared by Nosh Catering.
• Our 2nd Annual Latke Cook-off! Think your latkes have what it takes to win? Check our website for details and to register.

Come ready to celebrate, compete, and create memories with our Kol Ami family!

Key Dates to Remember

12/1: No School – Thanksgiving Break

12/7:

• • Shabbat School: 6th-7th graders meet in the Chapel Lobby at 9:30 AM; join the main service at 10:15 AM for the Torah service.
  • Beginyan with Ms. Alissa: For 2nd-5th graders in the Chapel after the Torah service begins.

12/21:

• • Shabbat School: 6th-7th graders meet in the Chapel Lobby at 9:30 AM; join the main service at 10:15 AM for the Torah service.

12/22–1/5/2025: Winter Break – No Religious School. Classes resume:

• • 1/8: Zoom School
  • 1/11: Shabbat School
  • 1/12: Sunday School

I am so grateful for the joy and learning your children bring to Kol Ami and can’t wait to see what this season holds. Wishing you a warm and meaningful Chanukah filled with love, light, and latkes!

See you around the Shul,
Jennifer West
Education Director