On February 13, more than 80 members of the Tidewater Jewish community gathered at Ohef Sholom Temple (OST) to celebrate Tu B’Shvat, the Jewish New Year for Trees. This year’s seder was more than just a ritual. It was an immersive experience that blended culinary exploration, spiritual reflection, and communal bonding.
The event, supported in part by Tidewater Jewish Foundation’s (TJF) Community Impact Grant Program, highlighted Judaism’s deep-rooted connection to nature and the land of Israel. Guests enjoyed a beautifully prepared seder featuring traditional foods made from the Seven Species of Israel and took part in an interactive culinary experience, which encouraged engagement and reinforced the joy of shared tradition.
Reflecting on the event, Rabbi Rosalin Mandelberg shared, “OST’s Tu B’Shvat Seder, attended by over 80 people, reminded us of the value Judaism places on nature, our need to celebrate and preserve it, and our people’s historic and sacred connection to the land of Israel. Joyfully sharing delicacies made of Israel’s seven species was a wonderful way of building community and highlighting one of our tradition’s many, many relevant and positive contributions to our world. We are so grateful to TJF for partnering with us and to the many OST volunteers who lovingly prepared the Seder elements and the potluck dinner. During a painful time in our homeland and people’s history, it is imperative that we celebrate the immeasurable good that are essential parts of Jewish life both in Israel and here."
In a time when the Jewish community faces immense challenges, gatherings like this provide a space to come together, celebrate heritage, and strengthen bonds. OST’s Tu B’Shvat Seder exemplified the resilience, joy, and generosity that continue to define Jewish life, both in Tidewater and beyond.
TJF is proud to support initiatives like these, through the generosity of dedicated fundholders. Together we are ensuring that meaningful Jewish experiences remain accessible and enriching for the entire community.
