December 2016 • Sheala Vastbinder

What Is Hanukkah?

December 24, 2016December 24, 2016 by shealav

Christmas is far from being the only amazing holiday that occurs at this time of year! While Christians are celebrating Christmas, our Jewish friends are preparing for Hanukkah (or Chanukah), an 8-day festival of lights that began today (December 24) at sundown. I love the story of Hanukkah! Rather than telling it myself (and probably … Read moreWhat Is Hanukkah?

Advent 101: What Is Advent?

December 8, 2016December 8, 2016 by shealav

For all of us Advent novices, it’s helpful to know that this season marks the start of the Christian year; basically, it is the Church’s New Year’s Day! It starts four weeks before Christmas, around November 30 or the nearest Sunday to it. The term “Advent” comes from the Latin word for ‘arrival.’ As early … Read moreAdvent 101: What Is Advent?