What do bonfires and cheesecake have to do with Judaism? Well, the holiday of Lag Ba’Omer is famous for its conflagrations, while Shavuos is celebrated with the delectable dairy delicacy. But the question still remains: Why are they important to these holidays?
The Kollel’s M.B. Glassman GOLD Senior Division set out to bring the deeper meaning of these holiday traditions to Denver’s seniors. GOLD Director Joyce Litzman organized five events throughout Denver, presented by Kollel Senior Educator Rabbi Mordechai Fleisher; three for Lag Ba’Omer and two for Shavuos. The Lag Ba’Omer class featured a PowerPoint presentation describing and discussing the customs of this enigmatic holiday, while participants at the Shavuos program enjoyed genuine cheesecake and a discussion about its importance and meaning on Shavuos.
“Many participants expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to learn about the holiday of Lag Ba’Omer,” says Rabbi Fleisher. “It’s a holiday that is not well-known, especially outside of Israel, though it has become more “popular” in recent years. That we have a chance to make this wonderful and inspiring day a part of the lives of others is very meaningful.
“Many participants were familiar with the holiday of Shavuos and the customary cheesecake,” says Joyce Litzman, “and some recalled the dairy meals of Shavuos celebrated in their youth. But they were all delighted to get a slice of real cheesecake, and to discover its deeper meaning!”