Dear Friends,
I hope this message finds you well and in good health. As we enter the calendar month of February, we begin to approach the holiday of Purim. Purim falls out this year on Friday, February 26th. Purim is, of course, a holiday of great joy. On a year like this, more than ever, we all need to dig down into our wellsprings of joy, and draw forth simcha on this special day, despite all the hardship, suffering, and loss that we have collectively witnessed over the past year. But in addition to being a day of great joy, Purim is also a day of great mitzvah observance. There are four unique mitzvot that are attendant on the holiday of Purim:

1. Mishloach manot.
   Exchanging gifts of food with one is fellow.
2. Megillah reading.
   We are obligated to hear Megillat Esther being read twice, once in the evening, and again a second time during the day.
3. Seudat Purim.
   It is a mitzvah to have a festive holiday meal on Purim day.
4. Matanot L'evyonim.
   There is a special mitzvah on Purim, as designated in the Book of Esther, to distribute tzedakah on Purim.

As in years past, I will be available to help facilitate the distribution of tzedakah on Purim, and the performance of the mitzvah of matanot l'evyonim. Checks may be made out to the shul and mailed to my address:

Rabbi Peretz Robinson
84 Senior Place
Fairfield, CT 06825

Please designate that your donation is intended for matanot l'evyonim, Purim charity. Cash donations are also welcomed. The deadline to contribute is Sunday, February 21st.

Wishing you a month of health, happiness, and good tidings

Rabbi Peretz Robinson