PJ Library lights up the night

IT’S A WRAP

Tidewater families light up the night with PJ Library

Nofar Trem

Hanukkah is celebrated each year when the days are short and the nights are long and dark. For eight whimsical nights, family and friends gather to enjoy precious time together. Delicious meals are prepared, prayers are said, and children play games while the menorah shines. Like so many other holidays and events this year, Hanukkah had to be spent without gathering in large groups. Still, Jewish Tidewater was determined to not let distance impact traditions.

PJ Library of Tidewater started a new tradition this year, creating “PJ in a Box.” Designed to help families celebrate Jewish holidays and learn about different mitzvot, these boxes contain crafts and activities for children and information cards for the entire family.

“Hanukkah in a Box” partnered with the community’s annual Latkepalooza, adding a physical element to this year’s virtual event. The children shared the Hanukkiah they made with their box during a community candle lighting with Rabbi Marc Kraus of Temple Emanuel. Each box recipient also received a copy of The Ninth Night of Hanukkah by Erica Perl. The author joined live on Zoom for Latkepalooza, sharing her book and leading the children in creating thank you cards for the shamashim (helpers) in their lives.

With overwhelming positive feedback, PJ Library in Tidewater plans to continue

Lena and Johnny Aftel opening their box.

The Yusufov family’s finished menorah.

boxes of fun in 2021 with “Purim in a Box” to stay connected with families during these times and serve as a resource for families raising Jewish children.

To learn more about PJ in a Box or other PJ Library in Tidewater programs, contact Nofar Trem, United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s PJ Library program professional at ntrem@ ujft.org.

Leon Shall opening his Hanukkah box.

Ari Mulligan decorating his menorah.

Bennett Rouzeau using his prayer cards.

Lillian and Magnolia Moore with their decorated menorahs.

Participants react to the program

My children really enjoyed the Hanukkah box—such a wonderful story and the menorahs were very fun to make! —Lindsey Aftel

We are loving PJ library and all that you are planning. It is keeping us connected to Judaism, the community and each other all while we are stuck indoors. —Rachel Cooper

Thank you so much for the amazing Hanukkah box. My girls and the whole family enjoyed making the crafts and recipes! —Jessica White

The Hanukkah box was amazing for us! The box made a huge difference for my 5-year-old daughter. She was so excited every night to light the menorah she made, often asking many times if it was time yet. The prayer card was invaluable. It was so much easier to pray in Hebrew with it in front of us. —Amanda Curtis

Jillian Cooper showing off her beautifully decorated menorah.