Rosh Chodesh

Rosh Chodesh

 Rosh Chodesh

Everyone is warmly invited to our Women-led Rosh Chodesh!

IS THE CELEBRATION OF WOMAN’S ROSH CHODESH SOMETHING NEW?

Not at all! In Talmudic times, women were exonerated from certain work on Rosh Chodesh as a reward for not participating in the creation of the Golden Calf. For at least 2000 years, Jewish women have celebrated the appearance of the new moon (Rosh Chodesh) around the world in a variety of ways. At CSZ we are celebrating the first day of each new Hebrew month with our Women-led Rosh Chodesh Service, designed to deliver a meaningful experience within the warm, intimate minyan community. Women have the opportunity to participate in one of a multitude of roles. There are speaking roles in Hebrew and English, as well as non-speaking roles available. For anyone who would like to learn to lead a part of the service, we have recordings, resources, and assistance available.

Click here to sign up if you would like a speaking or non-speaking part.

We hope you will join us in the Bernstein Chapel on THURSDAY, JUNE 26, 2025 at 7:30 a.m.  Everyone (women and men!) is valued whether you are participating in the service, or coming to support one another and celebrate the new month. Special breakfast, coffee, and conversation will be offered following the service.

Ritual Director Saul A. Rube has made recordings of the prayer for us to study.  Click on the links below.

Curriculum

Our curriculum is written for our school by our Rabbis and Director of Youth and Family Learning. Each grade level has specific goals and learning targets that encompass the following areas:  

Learning and practicing Jewish rituals, holidays, and ethical actions, emphasizing how these observances connect individuals to Jewish tradition and community. 

Fostering a connection to Israel by exploring its geography, history, and significance as the Jewish homeland. 

Centering on learning and understanding Torah stories, characters, and teachings, and applying their lessons to daily life. 

Emphasizing the importance of ethical behavior, acts of kindness (Gemilut Chasadim), and fulfilling obligations like Tzedakah (charity). 

Exploring the meaning and practice of prayer, teaching students how to communicate with God and understand the significance of different prayers. 

Focusing on learning the Hebrew alphabet, vocabulary, and basic reading skills to engage with Jewish texts and prayers. 

Each grade level explores these themes through engaging and age-appropriate lessons. Teachers use a variety of teaching methods and resources, including the Chai Curriculum. 

Staff

We are fortunate to have a dedicated team of professional Jewish educators. Our teachers receive weekly planning time, during which they use our curriculum and learning goals to craft engaging lesson plans. They benefit from regular coaching and feedback from our Director of Youth and Family Learning and participate in ongoing professional development throughout the year. Our educators are passionate about their students and committed to their growth and success.

Family Programs

Throughout the year, we invite families to celebrate with us! Parents, grandparents, and siblings are welcome to join us for special Religious School mornings filled with music, food, and community celebration as we observe holidays such as Sukkot, Tu B’Shevat, and Passover as a school community. Families and students are also encouraged to attend our weekly Shabbat services, where we offer youth activities for children of all ages. Participating in Shabbat helps our students connect their learning and apply it in a congregational setting, fostering a deeper connection to our synagogue community.