KIHEI - The Jewish Congregation of Maui will mark the Festival of Purim after sunset at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at the Beit Shalom Synagogue in Kihei.
Purim celebrates the Jewish people surviving the genocidal plans of the Persian tyrant, Haman, who wished to annihilate all the Jews of Persia and its 127 provinces.
There are five commandments that the Jewish people observe this day: to hear the reading of the Megillah/Scroll of Esther; to send mishloach manot, or gifts of food; to give gifts to the poor in preparation for Passover; to say Al Hanisim, or a special prayer, acknowledging the miracle of this day; and to have a festive meal.
The event is open to everyone.
At 9:30 a.m. Sunday, there will be morning service followed by a traditional reading of the Megillah by Rabbi David Glickman. In the spirit of the holiday, come in costume and bring mishloach manot, or small baskets of food, to give to friends and visitors.
In observance of the directive to help the needy on Purim, the congregation will collect packaged and canned foods for the Maui Food Bank until April 14. Please drop items off at the synagogue. Recommended items include canned meat, tuna, fruits, vegetables and canned meals and soups with protein, cereals, rice and pasta. Financial contributions also are welcome by the Maui Food Bank.
The celebration will continue from 5 to 8 that evening with a Purim party featuring a costume contest, exchange of mishloach-manot goody baskets, the story of Esther in pidgin, a deejay and a light dinner for $10. Reserve for the meal at 874-5397.
The congregation's synagogue is at 634 Alulike St. in Kihei, behind the Maui Lu Resort, on the corner of Kaonoulu and Alulike streets. For more information, send e-mail jcom@hawaiibiz.rr.com.
