S'firat HaOmer - The Counting of the Omer
“How blessed are those who give to the poor! When calamity comes, Adonai will save them.” - Psalm 41:2
This year, as commanded in Leviticus 23:15-16, we will count the Omer from Passover to Shavuot. We are counting in a time of calamity, facing a global pandemic, economic uncertainty, and isolation from our beloved communities. The Torah and our Messiah teach that we should never forget the poor, even in times of trouble. In this spirit, the Union of Messianic Jewish Congregations will devote 50% of your Shavuot offering to ministries in Israel that deliver relief to the poor, who are especially vulnerable during this crisis. We will give primarily to Chaim BeShefa, which provides practical care and love to Israeli women trapped in prostitution, drug addiction, and homelessness.
To help you count the Omer, we’re providing a beautiful print-at-home Omer calendar (below) that includes special Scripture readings each day. Please print this at home, and hang it on your refrigerator or a prominent place in your living or dining room to serve as a constant reminder. As you count the Omer and reflect on our daily Scripture reading, set aside $1 per day as a thanksgiving offering for Shavuot. As you approach Shavuot, you can give online, send in your gift by mail, or route your designated offering through your congregation.
The Omer Calendar Download Omer Calendar
You can print your own calendar at https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OLUFAN94TotoepcKvPi9W9pAP3ryk81T/view
Recite the blessing every evening after sunset, then meditate on the daily Scripture:
ברוך אתה יי אלהינו מלך העלום אשר קדשנו במצותיו וצונו על ספירת העמר
Baruch Atah Adonai, Eloheynu Melech HaOlam, asher kidushanu b’mitzvotav v’tzivanu al s’firat haomer
Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us by His commandments and commanded us to count the Omer.
Today is Day __ of the Omer.
(Enter the day)