feature story / 29 At the second annual Rosh Ha shanah in the Park on Oct. 2, 2024, at least half the attendees were not members of Oheb Shalom. Rabbi Treu recalls, “Looking out at the crowd, there were many faces I knew and many more faces that I did not know.” These faces included numer ous non-Jews. “I think it’s been an important landing spot for interfaith families where there’s some part of the family that is Jewish and other parts that are not, and you figure out how to do Jewish together.” Rabbi Treu now considers Rosh Hashanah in the Park “a cultural event in the community” because of public interest in it. And public of ficials from Maplewood and South Orange, such as Vic DeLuca, Sheena Collum and Dean Dafis, have also attended each year. The annual event is held in con junction with PJ Library, an organi zation that publishes and distributes Jewish picture books and recordings. For the children attending, PJ Li brary supplies “busy bags” contain ing honey sticks (for a sweet new year), a flashlight (to bring light into the world), small toys and a family- friendly holiday guide. On Sept. 11, which is also the 25th anniversary of 9/11, Jews will once again gather in Memorial Park near the big, shady tree to welcome the new moon and a new year in the Jewish calendar. They will sing and pray together for a sweet New Year and for peace around the world. As Rabbi Treu says, “It’s very special and moving to start the New Year outdoors and come together for a spiritual experience that’s loving and joyful.” Harriet Sigerman, a member of Oheb Shalom Congregation, looks forward to celebrating Rosh Hashanah in the Park every year with her family and friends. new ways of connecting and creating public space and Jewish experiences for people and also interfaith experi ences,” says Rabbi Treu. Cantor Kissner observes, “We’re in the world sanctuary. Judaism grew out of an indigenous tradition connected to the land. We have our harvest festivals that are connected to specific harvests. We traditionally have a Jewish wedding ceremony un der the chuppah, under the canopy, where you can see the open sky. Ju daism really is a tradition that’s con nected to the natural world, so for me it wasn’t something new. It’s go ing back to something that already is. We said the prayer about the new moon, recited psalms that talk about the animals and plants, sang about peace and its connection to a river.” Congregants have also expressed deep satisfaction with observing in the park. Robin Wiener, a member of Oheb, says, “[My husband] and I have gone to the Rosh Hashanah ser vice in the park for the last few years and absolutely love the camaraderie. It is beautiful to see so many people come together to share in the service, especially those who are not Jewish. The rabbi and cantor bring so much joy and happiness to the service, which is often so solemn.” Dena Neusner, another Oheb member, says, “Having it outdoors makes it casual and grounded in na ture, which gives it both a fun and spiritual vibe.” Her husband, Andy Neusner, agrees. “Unlike a service in the synagogue, it’s a gathering with literally no walls. And it’s nice that kids can rampage without disrupting things.” According to Michelle Strassberg, Oheb’s executive director, “The pro gram is an opportunity to educate the public about the spirit and es sential message of [Rosh Hashanah]. For Jewish people who are not affili ated with a synagogue, it may be the only way they experience and learn about the holiday and its theme of renewal and forgiveness. For those who are not Jewish, it is a chance to experience a nonpolitical, spiritual and communal event that makes the New Year’s holiday experience ap proachable and family friendly.” Families attend Oheb Shalom's Rosh Hashanah in the Park in Memorial Park. Photo by Joy Yagid. Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner Open Everyday, 6 a.m. – Midnight Order Online • AmazingHamiltonDinerNJ.com Parking Available Where Flavor Meets Comfort The Amazing Hamilton Diner blends nostalgic comfort food with authentic Mexican cuisine. Dedicated to serving hearty meals from breakfast through dinner, we thrive on bringing friends and families together. “Whether it’s a perfectly grilled burger or a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee, every dish reflects our commitment to quality ingredients and friendly service.” 1473 Springfield Ave • Maplewood • 973-400-0327 We keep you smiling! 250 Millburn Avenue | Millburn 973-467-0077 Saturdays and Evenings Available On site parking | Convenient location Wendy Wisz, DMD General, Restorative & Cosmetic Dentistry Every effort is made to ensure the utmost comfort for each patient. Enjoy a modern profession- al environment and a caring staff. As a former faculty member of Fairleigh Dickinson Den- tal School, Dr. Wisz now de- votes all her time to private practice.
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