Jewish loungers--a little help, please....Thanks.

[Critters2]

I'm a Christian pastor. I'm not sure why we don't celebrate--or at least mention--Hanukkah, but we don't really, even though it's mentioned in the Gospel of John:

"22 At that time the festival of the Dedication took place in Jerusalem. It was winter, 23and Jesus was walking in the temple, in the portico of Solomon..."

I serve a progressive congregation, where respect for other faiths is an important part of our practice. So, I'd like to teach the children of my church about Hanukkah. My plan is to read them a children's book about Hanukkah during the children's time in worship this Sunday. I'd like them to learn the story of the Maccabees. I've found several books on line that seem focused on Hanukkah customs and traditions--latkes, dreidels, etc. I'd like them to learn about these things in time, but first I want them to know the history, how the dedication of the Temple came about.

Can you recommend any children's books for use as an introduction to Hanukkah? I'd be grateful for any suggestions.

Have a Happy Hanukkah!

[rockymountaindem]

1. I'll give your thread a kick but

I'm afraid I can't remember any books on Hanukkah from my days in religious school when I was a kid. Thanks for teaching the children in your congregation about Hanukkah though. I appreciate it, especially because it will hopefully dispel the common notion that Hanukkah is the "Jewish Christmas" or something like that.

[Critters2]

2. That's exactly my hope. And I'm always trying to teach that

our roots are in Judaism.

[HiFructosePronSyrup]

3. Have you got a TV/VCR?

They might like this one.

http://www.amazon.com/Rugrats-Chanukah-Christine-Cavanaugh/dp/0792145240/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=video&qid=1196731738&sr=1-1

[Critters2]

6. We won't have one in worship,

but the younger kids (third grade and under) go to child care after the children's time in worship. This would be a good idea for that time. Thanks!!

[coffeenap]

4. Here is the one my librarian mom gave my kids when they were

young. It is a nice one.

http://www.amazon.com/Great-Miracle-Happened-There-Chanukah/dp/0064434265

[Critters2]

5. That looks like just what I need!! Thanks!

I especially like the idea that the family is explaining the celebration to a Gentile child. That way, I can be sure it doesn't assume my kids will know anything to start out. Just right!

Thanks very much!!

[Zoigal]

7. There's quite a few Hanukkah songs for children, too.

And don't forget the tradition of lighting the menorah...z