Monday, December 22, 2008

Celebrating Hanukkah

We are trying something a little different this year. Every year, I struggle with teaching my children the true meaning of Christmas and keeping the focus away from presents and greed.

I also have been intrigued by the Jewish holidays for many years. As I read and learn about the significance and history behind the holidays, I wonder why we don't traditionally celebrate these holidays as born again Christians.

The thing I love so much about the Jewish holidays and festivals is the focus on the miracles of God and remembering the promises He made and fulfilled.

I have wanted to celebrate Passover for a couple of years now but have never gotten around to really knowing what I was supposed to do. I also was overwhelmed with the extensive ritual surrounding it. I don't want to do it all wrong, you know.

So, we decided to start with an easier (by my standards) holiday, Chanukah. We bought a menorah, researched the story, checked out some library books and went for it. Well, I already made my first mistake.

Chanukah officially started at sundown LAST night. On the American calendar, it shows starting today. But, the Hebrew calendar starts sunset the night before. Oh well. We are going to light 2 candles tonight and then we will be on track.

If you are interested in doing the same, here are some of the sites I got my research from:

Jews for Jesus
http://www.centralpc.org/docs/hanukkah.htm

2 comments:

Largaespada Family said...

I wanted to do this with our kids also. Unfortunately, I forgot about it until I read your blog. I think we'll try next year. Let me know about your experience!

Miss you! Hope you have an awesome Christmas!

Homeschoolin' hot-rodders said...

Hey! I wanted to let you know I tagged you :) DO it if you want...or don't :) either way is fine!