By Billy Thompson
Digital Marketing Associate

There are some events that just feel like community the moment you walk in. The PJ Library and Chabad of the Lehigh Valley Challah Bake in early January was one of them.

Families gathered at Chabad that day for a hands-on, joy-filled experience that brought little ones (and their grown-ups) together around flour, dough, and tradition. Aprons on and sleeves rolled up, we eagerly got to work making our very own challah, shaping the dough with concentration, creativity, and plenty of giggles. It was a messy endeavor, but so many fun things are! 

As the challah began to rise, families enjoyed snacks and easy conversation. The room buzzed with chatter, laughter, and the unmistakable energy of young children showing off their braided creations. The day’s events were going off seamlessly, thanks to the efforts of Rabbi Yaacov and Devorah Halperin, who led us through the task of making challah with patience and smiles.

The afternoon also featured a cozy PJ Library story time, giving everyone a chance to slow down, gather, and enjoy a meaningful moment of reading. Events like this capture what PJ Library is all about—connecting families, fostering Jewish learning, and creating warm memories through stories and shared experiences. And, what a treat: attendees were invited into the playroom while we waited for our dough to set!

Whether families came as longtime PJ Library participants or first-time attendees, the challah bake offered something special for everyone. And it was a reminder that Jewish learning can be joyful, delicious, and deeply communal.