I plan to invite a Jewish friend (and his family) to the Luis Palau Festival that is coming up on March 3 & 4 in Tampa. However, in reading the JFJ website, I see that "Purim, the Jewish holiday based on the book of Esther is Sunday, March 4." It goes on to say "As with all holidays it begins at sundown the previous night."
Will this affect time of day that my friend can attend? The festival runs from 1 pm until 9 pm each day. Should I invite him for an afternoon activity rather than for the evening event on either night?
Purim is not a 'High holiday' in Judaism. It is not a day of rest (sabbath). It is generally a light hearted fun holiday. Children often dress in costumes and cheer or boo or whistle or sound noise makers (gregors) as the book of Esther is read.
If your Jewish friend has children, they might choose to go to the Purim celebration (festival) for their children. There is nothing offensive to asking them to a festival. I don't know how observant your friends are but one restriction might be asking them to go on March 3rd, Saturday, before sunset since that is the Sabbath. Not all Jewish people are observant, so Saturday might not be an issue for them and Purim might not be an issue for them.
I would simply ask them if they would like to go with you, and if you can, give them a few possible times and days so they can choose. Either Saturday evening or Sunday during the day, or even Saturday during the day and let them chose.
Planning to preach on it that sunday. I find the numerous lessons in the book of Esther a bit intimidating to cram into aprox, 35 minutes. We are a primarily goyish fellowship {I was raised messianic in the faith}. All are very receptive to the messianic flavor of the scripture, which is a blessing to me. We probably will stick to Gods faithfullness towards Israel and the gentile blessed through Her Seed.
Hi! I'm a Tampa Messianic! I'm planning to be at the Festival!
There are four mitzvot ("worthy deeds") for Purim:
1. Reading the entire book of Esther
2. Feasting and rejoicing
3. Giving gifts to the poor
4. Giving gifts to one another
I wouldn't think that would exclude anyone from going to the festival. The only thing would be that the Sabbath is Friday sundown to Saturday sundown. If your friend is observant he/she might not go during that time.
ASK HIM! It isn't offensive to ask.
Kathy
I plan to invite a Jewish friend (and his family) to the Luis Palau Festival that is coming up on March 3 & 4 in Tampa. However, in reading the JFJ website, I see that "Purim, the Jewish holiday based on the book of Esther is Sunday, March 4." It goes on to say "As with all holidays it begins at sundown the previous night."
Will this affect time of day that my friend can attend? The festival runs from 1 pm until 9 pm each day. Should I invite him for an afternoon activity rather than for the evening event on either night?
Pateb,
You'd have to talk to your friend. He may celebrate Purim differently than others.