Rosh Chodesh means "head of the month." The month begins with the appearance of the new moon (Rosh Chodesh). Throughout history, the Jewish people have had a connection to the moon. Other ancient cultures revered the sun. A smaller nation, we saw ourselves in the small moon. Just like God, the moon would always return, providing us with the safety of its protective light.

According to an ancient tradition, the holiday was a reward given to the women of Israel because they refused to surrender their jewelry for the creation of the golden calf. Because of their righteousness, the women were exonerated from working on Rosh Chodesh.  Many Jewish women and synagogues have chosen to revive the ancient tradition, to interpret and to observe Rosh Chodesh as a day that bears a particular significance for them. As early as the 1970s, Jewish women have been marking Rosh Chodesh as a time for prayer and study.

The month of Adar is traditionally a time when we increase our joy as we get ready for the celebration of Purim later in the month. Join Cantor Shafritz and Sisterhood to bring in this month of happiness with some nosh, study, and a craft activity.