It’s finally here – SPRING! By the time you read this, we will have celebrated freedom at the Passover seders, had more than our fair share of matza, and can breathe a sigh of relief that the holiday is over. At least, that’s my typical experience! I hope you had a wonderful, meaningful, and joyful holiday.

 For many, Passover marks the start of spring… Yet there is another major Jewish holiday that also celebrates the arrival of the warm weather.

 On the 2^nd day of Passover, we begin the 49-day countdown from Passover to Shavuot, which is the lesser known of the three major harvest festivals (Sukkot, Passover, and Shavuot). This period is known as the Counting of the Omer. On the 50^th day, we arrive at Shavuot.

 On Shavuot, we remember both the days when sacrifices of harvested grains were offered at the Temple in Jerusalem, as well as the anniversary of the giving of the Torah to Moses on Mount Sinai.

 The connection between Passover and Shavuot is strong. On Passover, we become a free people. On Shavuot, we become the Jewish People.

 At Congregation Ahavas Israel, we invite you to participate in celebrating it all - the start of Spring, the Counting of the Omer, and the holiday of Shavuot.

 On the 33^rd day of the Omer, called Lag B’Omer (which is Sunday, May 22), we will be kicking off our 2^nd year of The Corners of the Field community garden. We need volunteers to help with the planting to get our garden growing strong. We will again donate at least half of the produce to God’s Kitchen to feed the hungry. Please contact me for more information, or just show up at 10:00 am on May 22 with your gardening gloves.

 Also on May 22, from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm, don’t miss our annual, traditional Lag B’Omer Bonfire (complete with roasted marshmallows, and hopefully my favorite roasted chocolate banana boats). The winner of our annual Cadillac Raffle will be decided that evening, as well! (Make sure to buy your ticket to have a chance at the $20,000 grand prize!)

 Shavuot services will be on Wednesday, June 8 & Thursday, June 9 at 9:30 am. Everyone is invited.

 I can’t think of a more beautiful way to recognize the arrival of Spring and celebrate our Peoplehood than with our Ahavas Israel family. Looking forward to seeing you.

 Happy Spring! - Marni