Angels Camp, CA…Purim, the Story of Esther and Hamen. The Mother Lode Jewish Community will be holding its annual Purim Party – with an Out of This World/Space Traveler theme, on Saturday evening, March 23rd in Murphys. Purim is a festive Jewish Holiday that commemorates the defeat of Haman’s plot to massacre the Jews as recorded in the book of Esther. The MLJC’s annual Purim Party is a potluck dinner affair for the entire family, from 6 to 10 pm, with live music and a chance to participate in, or enjoy the antics of, the MLJC Thespians …as well as eat lots ‘n lots of Hamentashen! Attendees are encouraged to come as their favorite space traveler. The potluck dinner will be vegetarian Mediterranean & Middle Eastern.

There will also be a Hamentashen prep gathering on Wednesday, March 20th from 2- 5 p.m. Anyone who wants to learn how to make these traditional triangular cookies…or try out a new recipe…is welcome.

Passover – Moses, Plagues and the Parting of the Red Sea
Passover is considered a “major” Jewish holiday, an important spring festival that commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from Egyptian slavery. The MLJC’s Seder will be held in Sonora on Saturday, April 20th, beginning at 5 pm. This is the second night of an 8-day holiday. Rabbi Andra Greenwald will conduct the Seder, followed by a traditional Passover meal.

For more information about either of these gatherings, call 209-533-1650, email: motherlodejc@yahoo.com or check out the MLJC’s website at motherlodejewishcommunity.org. There is no charge for the Purim event, just bring a potluck dish. The rates and registration deadlines for the catered Passover Dinner are posted on the MLJC’s website, along with optional online registration and information where you can mail a check. A calendar of future events can also be found by clicking on the events tab.

The MLJC’s mission is to provide opportunities and events that nurture a vibrant and enduring Jewish identity, culture and community in the Mother Lode, drawing its members from Amador, Calaveras, Tuolumne and Mariposa counties. New members and guests are always welcome.