At the Chaya Mushka seminary, the leading educational institution for girls in the Dnipro Jewish community, a special Shavuot preparation program titled “I Have a Share in the Torah” was held. The program was developed and led by Hebrew and tradition teacher Maryasha Heifer, with the assistance of the 8th-grade students.
As part of the preparation day, all students were divided into four groups, each participating in a special activity in a different classroom. The first task was to assemble a puzzle depicting a historic “first” that made a significant impact on the world — such as the first steps on the Moon or IDF soldiers touching the Western Wall. After discussing the importance of these events, the facilitators emphasized the symbolic value of the puzzle itself — a whole is made up of many different small parts.
“The girls were told that each of them is also part of a very important event — the Giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai — because all Jewish souls were present at that moment,” explains educator Edna Yudovich. “The puzzle idea became the centerpiece of the whole program and reflected its theme: ‘I have a share in the Torah’.”
The students then paired up to explore the key idea: “Everyone has a share in the Torah, and the strength to reveal it.” They participated in puzzle games, sang songs, and made personal commitments for growth. As it is traditional to enjoy dairy food on Shavuot, the girls prepared dessert and enjoyed a festive dairy buffet.
The puzzle theme returned at the end of the event — each girl received a puzzle-shaped keychain with her name on it as a lasting reminder that she, too, has a personal share in the Torah.
The event was held with the support of the Jewish Community of Dnipro.
