On February 28, the Louisville Hadassah Chapter celebrated Shabbat Zachor with a Havdalah service at Westport Wine and Whiskey in Westport Village featuring myrtle (Hadas in Hebrew).
Shabbat Zachor, the Shabbat preceding Purim, holds particular importance as Hadassah was founded during Purim and was Esther’s Hebrew name. Earlier in the morning, Board Members, Deb Amchin and Robin Wolff read a D’var Torah at their congregations. They spoke about Hadassah’s mission to be the anti-Amalek and provide medical care to anyone who seeks it, both in Israel and during emergencies around the world.
As Shabbat ended, Rabbi Michael Wolk led the participants in a Havdalah service, using myrtle leaves for the spice fragrance. Everyone had a taste of myrtle berry liquor, described by some as tasting as delicious as cough syrup.
Money was collected to purchase items for a Shalach Manot “basket” to donate to the JFCS Food Pantry.
Members were also encouraged so sign up for Hadassah’s new heart healthy walking program, Every Step Counts, and take a virtual walk to Hadassah Hospital in Jerusalem over the next few months. Interested participants can join at www.hadassah.org/everystepcounts.
