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Each year, JWRT holds a special

Havdalah Service

for residents of Rose Schnitzer Manor.


This senior living complex is located on the campus of Cedar Sinai Park in Portland.


What is a Havdalah Service?

Havdalah (a Hebrew word meaning 'separation') is a brief ceremony that marks the symbolic end of Shabbat (the Sabbath) and ushers in the new week. The Jewish Sabbath ends on Saturday night after the appearance of three stars in the sky or about 45 minutes to an hour after sundown.


During the Havdalah service, a special braided Havdalah candle with more than one wick is lit and a prayer is recited. It is customary to gaze at one's fingernails reflecting the light of the candle. A blessing is also recited over wine or grape juice. Spices, often stored in a decorative spice container, are handed around so that everyone can smell the fragrance.


According to some customs, at the conclusion of the Havdalah service the leftover wine is poured into a small dish and the candle is extinguished in it, as a sign that the candle was lit solely for the observance of Havdalah.