More than the centerpiece of Purim celebrations, Esther is unique in the biblical canon, and raises as many questions as it reveals answers. It is a rich source for text study, at Purim and throughout the year.

What are the prayers that women pray, the meditations of their hearts? Women of Reform Judaism, The Federation of Temple Sisterhoods, has collected the writings of its members and of women rabbis to create this gift book of personal prayers, poetry, reflections and meditations for every occasion in a woman"s life. A Gift of Prayer speaks to women of all faiths, celebrating life"s joys and offering the comfort needed to endure the struggles and crises we all face.

In A Gift of Prayer, women share their hopes and doubts with us-and with God. They grope for understanding, rejoice at the birth of a grandchild, remember seeing a loved one for the last time, or say a blessing upon seeing a rainbow. Their writings are accompanied by the work of Jewish artists on the theme of prayer-prayer inspired by nature, by ritual or by awe of the Divine. The result is a gift of words and art for every woman.

Features:

• Thirty-eight prayers, poems and meditations
• Accompanied by the artwork of many gifted contemporary artists
• The perfect gift for B'not-Mitzvah

Studies report decreased involvement in Jewish communal life on the part of both men and boys. Anecdotal information backs up this trend. There are often more women than men at services, more girls than boys in youth groups, and more women than men on the synagogue boards. What is behind these numbers and why? This book presents ideas, reflective essays, and program ideas meant to start the conversation in the synagogue about this phenomenon. There are no definite answers here, rather a choice to test some ideas and begin a dialogue.