Will Ahmadinejad Grinch Purim? Chabad of Southside Announces the Pre-Purim Family Festival

Jacksonville, FL, February 27, 2012 --(PR.com)-- As the Jewish Holiday of Purim quickly nears, Jacksonville’s Jewish community is gearing up for this joyous holiday. Often erroneously perceived as the Jewish Halloween because of the masquerades and food gifts, Purim celebrates the salvation of the Jewish people from imminent annihilation in the days of the Persian Empire (4th Century BCE) under King Ahasuerus and Haman, his viceroy who issued the terrible decree.

“It is eerie when you think about it. Two thousand years later today’s Persian leader seems to have adopted a similar strategy to that of his predecessors,” said Rabbi Shmuli Novack, Spiritual Leader Chabad of Southside. “Purim is perhaps the most joyous Jewish celebration of the year, and with G-d’s help all threats posed by Ahmadinejad and his cohorts will fall by the wayside as did those of Haman in those days at this season.”

Chabad of Southside is kicking off the Purim season with a celebration for the entire family, Sunday March 4th 11-1pm. Sponsored by Chabad’s Hebrew School, the program called “The Pre-Purim Family Fair” will offer hands-on activities like the Purim Mask design center and the Gragger (traditional noisemaker) craft. Hamantashen (traditional holiday pastries) will be decorated; kosher pizza lunch will also be available. Admission is free. There is a fee for the lunch and for some of the activities.

Purim begins on Wednesday Evening March 7. A Purim Masquerade Party with the reading of the Megillah (Book of Esther) with a slideshow presentation depicting the story will take place. All are encouraged to come in costume. Refreshments will be served. At Chabad of Southside March 7th 6:30 pm.

For more information please visit their website.

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