Cathkin pupils learn about Judaism

Judaism beliefs, values and culture came to life for Cathkin High School pupils when they visited an Orthodox synagogue as part of their Higher and National 4/5 world religion studies.

Teacher Orlaith Payne took her class to the synagogue, where they were met by representative Ian Leifer.

Ian took the pupils on a tour of the orthodox Jewish place of worship and explained some key facts about the religion and some of the celebrations that the Jewish people enjoy.

Pupils thoroughly enjoying both the fascinating talk from Ian and the religious artefacts on display for the students to examine.

The class had some interesting and challenging questions for Ian, who was more than happy to answer.

The group then visited Mark’s Deli in Giffnock for a taste of Jewish kosher food.

Host Mark himself came out of the kitchen to explain some of the items the pupils were tasting.

The young people sampled all the items and the chicken soup, known as Jewish penicillin to the Jewish community, was a particular hit.

Following a stroll around Giffnock in the sunshine, the class visited the reform synagogue, where guide Eileen showed the visitors where they pray, what their festivals consist of and how they conduct their laws.

Guides explained the Sabbath, the day of rest at the end of the week for all Jewish people.

Megan Barr said:“The best part was when we were shown how the Jews carry out a Sabbath.”

Eileen read from the Torah in Hebrew and the pupils were very impressed.

Nadia McDonald added:“Eileen put a lot of effort into making our trip as enjoyable and interesting as she could.”

And Jayne Hefferland said:“I really liked the four stained glass windows on the entrance to the synagogue and how they represented four important events in a Jewish life – birth, a Bar Mitzvah, marriage and death.”

Mrs Payne was impressed with the trip, adding:“This is the fifth year we have studied Judaism at Higher and National 4/5, and this trip really brought alive the beliefs, the values and the practices that make Judaism so interesting to teach.

“We would love to thank Eileen, Mark and Ian for their invaluable talks that will really aid the pupils in their final exam.”