A Season of Celebration

As snow falls and our building fills with the familiar sounds and rituals of the season, Genesis extends the warmest wishes to everyone in our two congregations.

Each of our winter traditions—one lit by the glow of candles, the other carried by the scent of evergreens and the lift of melodies—has its meaning. Each has a home here.

Hanukkah and Christmas arrive with distinct rhythms and stories. One recalls the perseverance of a community and the dedication that carried it forward; the other celebrates the hope and renewal at the heart of the season.

Each celebration originates in different places in history and communicates different aspects of faith, yet both draw us toward reflection, generosity, and the warmth of being with the people who matter to us.

Living side by side with neighbors of different traditions has always been core to the character of Genesis, and this continues to enrich the life we share.

After a year of intense sharpness and uncertainty, this season offers a welcome chance to pause, reconnect, and to enjoy the radiant warmth from the hanukkiah candles or the warm luminosity of Christmas lights, while reflecting on what those lights means to each of us.

Gathering and celebrating together brings joy and helps to orient us and steady us in a world that can feel unmoored.

Whether your celebrations involve latkes and brachas or Christmas cookies and carols (or both), may they bring comfort, joy, and a sense of belonging in the community we continue to build together. May this season bring you hope, rest, and renewal.

Genesis wishes each of you peace in your homes, warmth among family, friends, and neighbors, and a gentle path into this new year.