At a unique crossroads between religion and cuisine – the Jewish holiday of Shavuot celebrating the Giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai some 3326 years ago has become a celebration of fine dairy cuisine as well.

As the Torah was given and the laws of kosher dining were first received, the Jewish people were not yet capable of properly preparing beef and poultry and as such ate dairy. The rest is history.

Exquisite cheesecakes, pesto pastas, lasagna, soufflés and of course cheese blintzes all take center stage during this ancient celebration. Some suggest that this has contributed to the renewed popularity this holiday has seen.

When thinking Jewish Holidays, Passover, Chanukah and Yom Kippur come to mind – nevertheless Shavuot is considered one of Judaism’s major holidays and was in fact a “pilgrimage” when all of Israel would travel to Jerusalem to celebrate in the Temple.

“No, it isn’t all about the food,” said Rabbi Mendy Lipskier of Fountain Hills Chabad.

“What is important is that the community is joining together, hearing the Ten Commandments and celebrating the Torah. But the good food certainly helps!”

Chabad of Fountain Hills welcomes the community on Sunday, May 24, at 10 a.m. to a holiday service with the reading of the Ten Commandments, followed by special dairy luncheon and ice cream party for the children.

Just as the Sinai event was attended by every Jewish man, woman and child, so too every Jewish person should make every effort to hear the Ten Commandments read aloud from a Torah scroll, Rabbi Lipskier said.

On Monday, May 25, Memorial Day, Chabad will be holding a special memorial Yizkor service starting at 10 a.m. followed by lunch.

Both services will be held at the home of Rabbi Lipskier. For address contact the Chabad office at 480-776-4763.