Amanda Lindenbaum is one of fifteen women of other religious backgrounds raising Jewish children who are enrolled in The Mothers Circle course in Baltimore. An article in yesterday’s Baltimore Sun, “Passing the torch of Jewish tradition: Mixed families come together for Hanukkah,” reports on Amanda and other Mothers Circle participants learning about Hanukkah and celebrating the holiday with their families:

This weekend, Amanda Lindenbaum had already taught her 6-year-old son, Cole, to make some Hanukkah crafts. His sister, 2-year-old Kate, was adding dots to some dreidel shapes her mom had cut out. Once, “my grandparents were the ones who made the holidays,” [Amanda’s husband] Heath said. Now, “we can be those people,” Amanda said.

The eight-month Mothers Circle course focuses on Jewish rituals, values, and the how-tos of creating a Jewish home. The Baltimore Mothers Circle is operated by the Jewish Community Center of Greater Baltimore and generously supported by the Ben and Esther Rosenbloom Foundation, the Hoffberger Foundation, and The Jacob & Hilda Blaustein Fund of The Associated.

Especially at this time of year, moms appreciate the education and support that the program provides. For more information about the Mothers Circle, visit www.TheMothersCircle.org, and for helpful information about celebrating Hanukkah with your own family, be sure refer to the Hanukkah section of JOI’s website.