The Joy of Gathering with Jewish Friends and Their Families
December 4, 2024 | Jewish Traditions and Values
By Rachel Pototsky
Spending time with friends is always special, but there’s something extra meaningful about getting together with Jewish friends and their families. Whether it’s sharing delicious meals, celebrating traditions, or watching kids laugh and play, these moments create memories that stick with us forever.
Ready to make your gatherings even more fun and meaningful? Here are some easy and creative ideas, plus a fantastic resource – the PJ Library Get Together Grant – to help make it all happen!
Fun and Meaningful Ways to Spend Time Together
- Host a Shabbat Dinner
One of the most meaningful Jewish traditions is Shabbat, a time for rest, reflection, and family. Hosting or joining a Friday night dinner can be a heartwarming experience. Everyone can participate by bringing a dish, helping to light candles, or simply enjoying the sense of community around the table. - Get Crafty
Create something together! Kids and adults alike can make challah covers, Chanukah menorahs, or Passover Seder plates. These crafts not only foster creativity but also provide opportunities to learn about Jewish customs in a hands-on way. - Explore the Outdoors
Take a hike, visit a park, or organize a family-friendly sports game. Jewish values often emphasize appreciating nature and the world around us, making outdoor activities a perfect fit for quality time. - Share Stories
Gather the children for storytime featuring Jewish folktales or picture books. Adults can join in discussions about culture, history, or spirituality. Sharing stories helps bridge generations and deepen mutual understanding. - Celebrate the Holidays
Participating in Jewish holiday traditions is a fantastic way to bond. Whether spinning dreidels during Hanukkah, hunting for the afikomen at Passover, or building a sukkah during Sukkot, these activities bring joy and a sense of inclusion.
Make It Happen with the PJ Library Get Together Grant
If you’re looking to bring these ideas to life, the PJ Library Get Together Grant is an amazing resource. It’s designed to make it easier (and more affordable) for families to connect through activities like Shabbat dinners, playdates and other meaningful experiences.
Whether you want to host a Hanukkah celebration, organize a craft day, or plan an outdoor adventure, the PJ Library Get Together Grant can make it easier to bring people together. It’s a wonderful way to remove some of the financial barriers to hosting and ensure that families can focus on the joy of spending time with one another.
The Importance of Spending Time Together
Building connections with friends and their families strengthens the fabric of our lives. For children, these experiences foster an appreciation of diversity, helping them understand and respect other cultures. Adults benefit from the deepened friendships that come from sharing traditions, values, and memories.
These gatherings remind us of the importance of community. Judaism emphasizes tikkun olam (repairing the world) and the value of relationships in achieving that goal. By coming together, we not only enrich our lives but also contribute to a stronger, more interconnected society.
Let’s Get Together!
Whether through shared meals, collaborative crafts, or simply watching the kids laugh and play, gathering with Jewish friends and their families is a beautiful way to build community. With the support of the PJ Library Get Together Grant, these moments are easier to create and even more meaningful.
So, what are you waiting for? Apply for the grant, plan something amazing, and create connections that truly matter. Your next get-together could be the start of something unforgettable!