Emotions ran high at our annual 1st Grade Siddur Party- Chagigat HaSiddur Celebration. The children were dressed in festive crowns with white shirts and blue bottoms. The glittering crowns proclaimed "My Prayer" in Hebrew. The children were all geared up for the special day. After spending much time learning to read the Hebrew Alef Bet with vowels, as well as beginning to read and write Hebrew script, they felt proud to now be ready to receive their own personal Siddur (prayer book). They will also begin to study Chumash- Torah texts. Each parent inscribed a loving note to their child which was placed inside the Siddur. Sentiments included how precious is the prayer of a child to Hashem, reminding their child of the deep personal connection they have with Hashem (G-d), statements about how Hashem (G-d) listens to our prayers and provides all our needs, as well as words affirming how proud the parents are of their child and this special milestone in their lives. At the program, parents were given the opportunity to decorate the cover of the Siddur. That is always a fun activity for the adults who enjoy the markers, sticky gems, and colorful embellishments, making each design beautiful for their child! The children sang some songs from the daily prayers as well as other special tunes. Then, each of them was presented with their own Siddur, lovingly handed to them by their parents. Delicious refreshments were served, including a giant cake in the shape of a Siddur!
This culmination of their Hebrew Reading achievement is now the gateway to all future reading and learning of prayer, Torah texts, and modern Hebrew. A tremendous sense of a closeness and meaningful relationship with Hashem is fostered. This will certainly positively affect their bright future, wherever life may take them! We appreciate our dedicated staff and administration for giving our children the opportunity to flourish! Such experiences ensure a rich present and a vibrant future for our community!