There is a monthly Kabbalat Shabbat service Friday evening and
weekly Shabbat morning services. Friday evening services are usually
attended by 20-40 people and Shabbat morning there is a core group of 10-12
people and these services often attract tourists who are visiting our area.
Bar and Bat Mitzvahs are very well attended.
A group of women celebrate Rosh Hodesh, the new moon every month. This is attended regularly by 10-15 women. An annual Rosh Hodesh retreat in the summer brings together 60-70 women from throughout Northern California. A men's retreat began in 1994 and has continued annually in late summer or early fall.
Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur are usually attended by 150-200 adults. There are children's services during the day that are usually attended by 40-50 youngsters.
Sukkot and Simchat Torah: the community builds a communal sukkah, eats meals, has services there, and conducts classes throughout the week of Sukkot. Simchat Torah is celebrated in the evening with a service and celebration. These holidays are very meaningful in a community that is quite involved in the environment and the natural world.
An annual Chanukah party with local "talent" show usually is attended by 100-150 adults and children. It is a favorite among our elders.
A Tu Beshvat seder is celebrated and like Sukkot and Simchat Torah is one of the most special of the holidays to this community. It is usually attended by 3-50 adults and children and is often, weather-permitting held outdoors.
Purim brings together the many talented artistic members of the community who enact the Purim story followed by a celebration and study activities. This holiday brings together about 60-80 adults and children. It is a favorite among our elders. Yiddish is often included in the enactment of the story.
Passover home celebrations are encouraged. A seder hotline links those who are willing to have additional guests with those who need a seder to attend. Classes and preparation lessons are offered prior to the holiday.
A Lag B'Omer picnic that brings together the coastal community with the inland community from Ukiah and Willits is an annual event. It draws at least 25-30 from each community. It is especially good for the youngsters to have contact with other Jewish children.
Shavuot is an evening of study, this has now become an all night study
session in the new building.
Copyright MCJC 1997; Updated 07/04/97 (mc/rge)