Jewish American Heritage Month

Posted By richards on November 26, 2013

CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- Julius and Libby Nearman would be happy to know current generations of their family will gather in Charleston to light Hanukkah candles and celebrate Thanksgiving.

This week marks the first time since 1888 that the two holidays have overlapped, according to a flurry of media reports as well as Internet research.

The Nearmans founded B'nai Jacob Synagogue in the late 19th century when they had the first service in their home on what was once known as Brown Street where the Municipal Auditorium now stands. Julius and Libby were both alive in 1888 when Hanukkah and Thanksgiving overlapped.

Fast forward to 2013 and the Kanawha City home of Rita and Sherman Nemo Nearman. A gathering on Thursday will include several generations feasting on kosher fried turkey. Their great grandchildren, Shaun, 7, and Josiah, 8, will light the menorah.

Those who can't be there in person will join the family through modern technology.

"Skype is something the pilgrims didn't have and the Israelites didn't have," Nemo Nearman said.

While Hanukkah and Thanksgiving are both steeped in tradition, celebrations will remain basically the same for Charleston's Jewish community.

However, Rabbi James D. Cohn, of Temple Israel in Charleston, said celebrating the two holidays in close proximity is significant as families reflect upon their respective meanings.

"Each holiday has its own story, one with freedom in a new land and another with freedom in one's own land," he said. "So, they dovetail. Another thing that is relevant is Americans who are Jewish feel connected with their Jewish and American heritage. There is something special about celebrating one's ethnic and religious identity as we celebrate being part of the symphony of culture that makes up American life."

Aside from a feeling of thankfulness, both events have the common thread of enjoying good food.

See the original post here:
Jewish families celebrate overlapping holidays

Category: Jewish American Heritage Month
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