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Shalom
translates
from Hebrew as “peace” or “well-being”. The well known Hebrew greeting
Shalom Aleichem means “well-being be upon you”.
It is abbreviated in modern Hebrew to Shalom and used
to both greet and farewell.
Shalom
Court’s Mission Statement, visible at the main entrance to the home,
states that at the heart of the home is “a core Jewish spirit”.
The
Management Committee members are predominantly Jewish and the Judaism
that is practiced and observed within the home is a reflection of
our own Jewish education and levels of observance.
The
Auckland Hebrew Congregation and Beth Shalom are
Auckland
’s two Jewish communities. The rabbi of each
community offers religious and spiritual guidance to residents, community
members and interested parties.
In
addition
Shalom Court
enjoys positive relationships with many of
Auckland
’s Jewish community organisations which,
on or during auspicious occasions throughout the Jewish calendar,
bring a diverse range of activity, music and teaching into the home.
Kadimah
school students visit the home once each school term and spend time
interacting with the residents.
The
Sabbath is observed every Friday night. A roster of male volunteers
(and often their children) conduct an abridged service which includes
Kiddush (sanctification of the Sabbath).
Residents are encouraged to participate in the traditions.
A
special activity programme is scheduled for most of the major Jewish
festivals. Notes
to each festival explaining its meaning, origin and practices are
presented to the residents. Special festival dishes are prepared according
to custom – cooking sessions with the residents to prepare these dishes
are common ! Dietary laws are kept as far as no meat from pig,
shellfish and crustaceans
are permitted in the home.
Mezuzot,
in which specified verses from the Torah are written on parchment,
are fixed to each door of the rooms in the home. According to the
Talmud, keeping the commandment of mezuzah brings long life and protection
for members of the home. For this reason, residents are asked to refrain
from placing religious objects or icons on the walls of the room that
are symbolic of other religions.
Applications
for residency from persons of all faiths are welcomed.
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