THE 7TH ANNUAL JEWISH CHRISTMAS

This year the first day of Chanukah fell on Christmas Day, which was particularly meaningful for us at St. Gregory's due to our long-standing tradition of B'nai Torah Congregation serving the Christmas Day meal at St. Gregory's, which we have named "A Jewish Christmas!" Over the years, I have been so appreciative of B'nai Torah's willingness to allow the Christian volunteers and staff of Meals with Meaning to observe Christmas with their families while members of B'nai congregation prepare and serve the meal. It is a loving partnership built upon the deep friendship between our two congregations over many years. The traditional menu for the meal is Chinese food, of course!

This year nearly 400 people attended this Christmas/Chanukah feast, which was by far the largest turnout for the holiday meal! Despite careful planning, the B'nai Torah team ran out of food and sent volunteers to area Chinese restaurants for extra food to make sure everyone was fed. They also arranged for hair stylists to volunteer their time and nearly 100 people received a complimentary haircut. 

As we joyfully celebrate the birth of Jesus, our Jewish Messiah, I am grateful that our two congregations work so closely together to care for the most vulnerable in our community. We are making a difference, and I can feel Jesus smiling. 

In Christ,

Andrew+

The Rev. Andrew J. Sherman