Purim 2017
More than 60 people of all ages, children, adults and
seniors, gathered in the sanctuary with groggers in hand on Leil Purim
(Saturday March 11 evening) to celebrate the Festival of Lots by listening to
the re-telling of the Book of Esther, and to blotting out the name of the evil
Haman.
Costumes of all manner abounded kindling a festive atmosphere. Snacks of
potato chips, soft drinks, and alcohol helped to get attendees in the mood to
party. The megillah (scroll) was read in an animated fashion by a line-up of
children and adults, and we re-lived the victory of Esther and Mordechai over
Haman in ancient Persia. Purim is a time of paradox, when what we see is not
necessarily what is, and a topsy-turvy experience (including masquerade and
self-mockery). After the megillah reading, all present were treated to platters
of fresh vegetables, fruits, cookies – and of course – hamantaschen!
Later on, we kicked up our heels as the sanctuary was
transformed into a dance hall. Lasers lit up the domed roof and music permeated
the hall. DJ Mack from HiWay Productions spun many favourites from the 60’s and
70’s, including lots of David Bowie classics, other songs from Prince, the
Beatles, Saturday Night Fever and assorted requested numbers. A small but
spirited group of revelers, kept things going on the dance floor until
midnight.
