Spring is here, and Temple Judea has a rich mix of events lined up to help you connect, learn, and grow. While the Megillah reading, Wicked Purim Spiel and carnival (March 14-16) are the unmissable highlights, there are plenty of other opportunities to build community, create lasting memories, and engage with your Temple Judea family.

Tomorrow night, February 12, 2025, marks the start of Tu B’Shvat, the Jewish New Year of the Trees.

A group of Temple Judea high school students just returned from an epic, action-packed four-day L'Taken trip to Washington, D.C. They toured the US Holocaust Memorial, Air & Space Museum, and Natural History Museum, all while somehow managing to explore Georgetown and survive an extremely cold Havdalah on the steps of the Jefferson Memorial. Talk about a memory!

Happy secular New Year! While Temple Judea offices, ECC, and regular Religious School took a break last week, our Winter Camp Sababa crew shifted into high gear for another session rooted in exploring Jewish values. Think paper Midrashim, art, challah baking, Krav Maga moves, and yoga. Plus, a sprinkle of sleepover magic – featuring over-the-top Shabbat vibes, a talent show, movies, and Chanukah lighting! Ask any Sababa Winter camper – last week was a total blast! 

Tomorrow evening, Wednesday, December 25, we begin the celebration of Chanukah — a time to honor the enduring power of light and hope. As we celebrate this remarkable story, we are reminded that even the smallest spark can shine brightly in the darkest of times. Just as a tiny bit of oil burned for eight days and a handful of Jews stood strong for their freedom, Chanukah teaches us that our own small actions and moments of resilience can have an extraordinary impact.

This year, we are thrilled to welcome Joe Buchanan as our 2025 Artist in Residence for his Judea Tour. Joe, a Texas-born singer-songwriter, brings a unique blend of country music and Jewish themes that are shaped by his personal journey into Judaism, which he discovered later in life.