Cranberry Jewish Community Set to Celebrate Purim

How does a modern community commemorate the deliverance of its ancestors from the wrath of an evil sycophant in ancient Persa? How does it honor the finesse of a tactful queen in outwitting a palace full of drunken courtiers, and how does it celebrate the higher power of family ties? 

In Cranberry, it’s done with a bountiful bagel brunch buffet followed by a dramatic re-telling of the biblical Story of Esther, which will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 11 at the Pavilion Café inside thein Cranberry.

The Cranberry Jewish Community Association—which was formed two years ago to foster fellowship and promote cultural events among Cranberry-area Jewish residents—will celebrate its second yearly celebration of Purim.

The festive holiday traditionally begins on the 14th day of the Hebrew month of Adar, which this year starts on the evening of March 7 and lasts until sundown March 8, according to the modern civil calendar.

Brunch at the event will be served from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and feature lox and bagels, blintzes, an omelet station, fresh fruit, hot entrees, desserts, beverages and more. Advance reservation is required. The cost is $20 for adults, $10 for children ages 6 to 12 and $5 for children younger than 5.

Checks should be made payable and mailed to Ruth Ralston at 401 Three Degree Road, Renfrew, PA 16053 by March 5.

Everyone is welcome to share in celebrating the most joyous observance in the Jewish calendar.

-- Information submitted by The Cranberry Jewish Community Association. Have news you'd like to share with Patch readers? Email information and photos to Editor Jessica Sinichak at jessica.sinichak@patch.com or visit our .