Search the Site:

Purim is not just for kids

Tue, 03/15/2011 - 20:24
Rabbi Ari Kievman.JPG

Don’t forget the elderly - Chabad House is throwing
a Purim party for seniors and everyone's invited!


By Rabbi Ari Kievman, pictured

Purim is undoubtedly one of everyone’s most favourite of holidays. Every Shul plans its uniquely themed party, especially attracting the kids to rejoice in the festive holiday’s celebrations. Although Purim is time for kids to masquerade in fancy dress and for adults to have a good time too, we mustn’t forget the elderly.

At every age, we must never forget how to have fun and experience the lighter side of life. Especially as we get older and have to contend with factors that sometimes get us down, that we need the extra merriment that Purim brings. Many elderly people are suffering from depression, health issues, financial constraints, loss of a spouse, children far away, loneliness et al.

So Purim is a natural time to celebrate and put our worries and concerns aside. It’s a time to reflect on previous celebrations and make this years exceed them all. It’s a time for real reJewvination

Every year when Purim comes around Chabad House invites all seniors to attend its annual Seniors’ Purim Party. This year’s festivity happens on Purim, Sunday, 20 March, at 11:00 am. Come nosh on Hamantashen and other treats and spend an entertaining afternoon schmoozing with friends and neighbors in a cheerful holiday setting. You’ll hear the Megillah (be sure to boo Haman!), along with a fun multimedia wall projection.

Have some l’chaims, listen to holiday music, enjoy delicious food and share shalach manot gifts with one another. Who knows, maybe you’ll win a great prize in the raffle! Admission to this not-to-be-missed party is free. This terrific event will take place at Chabad House at 27 Aintree Avenue in Savoy. Mark your calendars now.

Everyone is welcome to join the merrymaking at Chabad Houses’ affair. Some seniors whose children and family all live far away have no place to celebrate the holiday. Others who wish to come with their favorite grandchildren or adapted family.

It’s great to have intergenerational interaction because the older adults have so much to teach and inspire the youngsters while the younger generation can infuse joy and companionship with their older friends and family.

Call 011-440-6600 for more information.


Rabbi Ari Kievman is director of Chabad’s Chai Seniors programme
and can be reached at 079 434-1293 or via email rak@chabad.org.za.


Your rating: None Average: 5 (2 votes)