Purim is described in the Talmud as a time of drinking and rejoicing. As Jews look forward to celebrating, we are reminded of the Talmud’s suggestion to drink enough wine so that we do not understand the difference between, “cursed is Haman” and “blessed is Mordechai.”
Whether we are celebrating a holiday, observing the Sabbath, or conducting a Seder, wine is an integral part of Jewish religious observances. Yet for Jews with the disease of alcoholism, such religious rites can be dangerous practice when abstinence from alcohol is essential to sober living and recovery. With the aim of creating a more supportive atmosphere at temple for families who are dealing with issues of chemical dependency and addiction, Temple Judea has formed
Tzevet Teshuvah, an alcohol and drug Recovery Team.
Headed by Rabbi Siegal,
Tzevet Teshuvah is part of a larger, national effort to bring awareness, education and addiction recovery support to children, youth and adults served by synagogues. The Temple Judea team is comprised of members who have professional experience working in the area of substance abuse.
Tzevet Teshuvah seeks to provide help, support, and information to those in the congregation who are reaching out.
A community resource notebook can be found in the temple library, and the Recovery Team is available to assist temple members. For more information you can contact Rabbi Siegal at
j.siegal@judeagables.org or at the temple office, 305-667-5657.
Click here to read Rabbi Siegal's sermon of March 28, 2008, Tzevet Teshuvah.
Sharon Kasanoff
