Daily Archives: March 17, 2006

Purim in the Shtetel

“Purim in the Shtetel” was celebrated and in keeping with the Chabad tradition of creating fun and exciting holiday programs for the Jewish community, Chabad of Alexandria/ Arlington hosted its 5th annual Purim around the world party Monday at a hotel in Pentagon City.

Purim commemorates the escape of the Jewish people from annihilation by the ancient Persian Empire, and is celebrated by the exchange of food packages between friends, by giving charity to the poor, by eating a traditional festive meal and by reading the story of Purim from the Megillah, or Purim scroll.

“It combines ancient Jewish traditions with a modern twist, as we focus on doing interesting and innovative holiday programs, yet still keeping with the holiday theme,” said Rabbi Mordechai Newman, director of Chabad of Alexandria/Arlington.

Purim In Lithuania

This year’s Purim in Vilnius, Lithuania, will long be remembered by the city’s Jewish community.

Six hundred Jews, from Vilnius and neighboring Kaunas, were treated to a Purim extravaganza at the Forum Palace concert hall. The megillah reading by Rabbi Sholom B. Krinsky, Chabad representative to Lithuania, was followed by musical performances by Chabad’s very own students. The crowd enjoyed one belly laugh after another as Israeli comedian Y. Levinzon, originally from Odessa, entertained.

Sponsored by Chabad, the event made the Purim holiday come to life. “People looked forward to this with so much anticipation, and they were grateful for the opportunity to participate in the holiday,” says Rabbi Krinsky.

More pictures in the Extended Article!