How are finishing the first book of the Torah and a pajama party connected? The MDS early childhood department celebrated a siyum of the book of Bereishit by singing, dancing and reflecting on the words said by Yaakov Avinu to his grandchildren, “הַמַּלְאָךְ הַגֹּאֵל אֹתִי, may the angel who has redeemed me bless these children…” These words, designed to bring comfort, are said by Jewish children around the world at bedtime each night. They hope for protection and ask Hashem to constantly watch over and safeguard us.

The siyum was very meaningful as all the teachers held up a very large tallit and the students, in their pajamas, passionately sang “הַמַּלְאָךְ הַגֹּאֵל.” Following the siyum, everyone went back to the classrooms for some chocolate milk and cookies. Chazak, chazak, v’nitchazek!