Today is Pesach Sheini, the second Passover, marked exactly one month from the first day of Pesach.
When the Jews were in the desert and were about to observe Pesach for the first time as a free nation, some people realized that would be precluded. Only ritually pure people were allowed to partake of the Paschal offering, and they were ritually impure due to having come into contact with a dead body.
They complained to Moses and Moses conferred with G‑d, returning with a solution: Anyone unable to participate in the Pesach offering, either due to being impure or being far from the Temple, would be given a second chance one month later.
Although today, in the absence of the Temple, there is no Pesach offering, the date is still marked as “the day of second chances.” It’s a reminder that if ever find ourselves in a situation beyond our control where we miss out on a mitzvah, if we want it badly enough, G‑d might just give us that opportunity. But you have to demand it, tell G‑d that you don’t want to be left out and separate from the community.
We mark the day by eating a little matzah, and demanding of G‑d that he send Moshiach so we can rebuild the Holy Temple in Jerusalem and once again offer the Pesach sacrifice. May it happen soon!
Shabbat shalom,
Rabbi Chaim & Chanie
P.S. To learn more and participate in the mezuzah campaign, visit our website at www.chabaduptown.org/divinesecurity.
P.P.S. The JLI newest course Jewpernatural has been well attended! You can still join! The six part course with insructor Rabbi Moishe Traxler, is a journey as we understand the natural world better, we have only grown more fascinated by mysterious topics like the meaning of dreams; the existence of angels, demons, and extraterrestrials; and the power of the evil eye. With record interest inspiring curiosity, dread, and mockery, this course probes the Talmud, Jewish philosophy, and kabbalah to provide Jewish perspectives and guidance for those curious about these perennial questions. Learn more here.
Many of us are in Guatemala for an amazing weekend enjoying a memorable experience, including so far visiting Hobbitenango Guatemala and camping overnight while observing the beauty of the active Fuego volcano from Mount Acatenango. We look forward to celebrating a meaningful Shabbat together to not only explore a new country but to also connect with like-minded individuals from across the USA and Canada forming lasting relationships.
The Chabad house is also a popular destination for Israeli backpackers seeking a sense of community and connection while traveling. These young travelers can often be found socializing with other Jews, engaging in Jewish learning and practice, and participating in activities like Shabbat dinners and holiday celebrations. For many Israeli backpackers, the Chabad house provides a unique opportunity to explore their heritage and connect with the broader Jewish community while on the road, forming relationships with fellow travelers from around the world who share a similar interest in Jewish identity and practice.
Upcoming Events:
- Fri. May 5, 7:30 pm - Cinco de Shabbat May First Fridays, Pesach Sheni - Enjoy a Mexican Themed evening with other Young Jewish Professionals over Shabbat Dinner. www.yjphouston.org/cinco2023
- Mon. May 8, 8 pm - Lag B'Omer Artisan raBBiQ - Experience the mystical insights of this unique not-so-famous Jewish Holiday, with live music and BBQ with TV chef Rabbi Chaim. www.yjphouston.org/raBBiQ
🍦 Shavuot, Thursday-Shabbat, May 25-27 🧈:
www.chabaduptown.org/shavuotschedule
- Wed. May 24, 8 pm - Shavuos Treats and Eats Cooking Club! Prepare Shavuos holiday treats while we discuss what's behind the custom of eating dairy products on Shavuos
- Thurs., May 25, 11:30 pm Shavuos All Night Learn-A-Thon
- Fri. May 26, 11:15 am Shavuos Reading of Ten Commandments & Party followed by 1 pm dairy kiddush & ice cream party!
- Sat. May 27 11:45 am approx. - Shavuos Yizkor Memorial Service
Shabbos Parshas Emor
Friday, Pesach Sheni, May 5, 14 Iyar
Eat Matzah today for Pesach Sheni
Services at 7:30 pm
Candle Lighting at 7:43 pm
Omer Count 30
RSVP for Cinco de Shabbat First Fridays Dinner www.yjphouston.org/cinco2023
Shabbos, May 6, 15 Iyar
Chassidus at 9 am
Services at 10 am
Shabbos Lunch Kiddush
Mincha at 7:40 pm
Pirkei Avot Chapter 4
Maariv, Havdalla and Shabbos ends at 8:40 pm
Omer Count 31
Living Torah
Sunday, May 7, 16 Iyar
Shacharis at 8:00 am
Mon.-Fri. May 8-12, 17-21 Iyar
Shacharis at 6:45 am
Monday, Lag B'omer, 8 pm: www.yjphouston.org/raBBiQ
Good Shabbos!