Our pets are such blessings!

PHOTOS BY CARA MOROZE

This past Friday evening, Aug. 14, the congregants of Temple Sholom of West Essex and their faithful fuzz balls celebrated Rosh Hashanah La'Behemot -- Jewish New Year for Animals with blessings and beautiful songs that led to many a wagging tail and soft purr! Rabbi Groffman and Cantor Wright led the group on the grounds of the synagogue in Cedar Grove in meaningful reflection about Moses and a little lamb, the mitzvah of tza'ar ba'alei chayim (the Jewish obligation to treat animals with kindness and compassion), and Noah's covenant with every living creature. They also shared stories and discovered some wonderful ways pets make a difference in people's lives. Some dogs even howled in harmony along to the songs. The pets were given treats and toys at the end.

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