The Menorah Pledge. Eight Principles that guide our lives as B’nai B’rith Girls. Eight Principles that each BBG should live by and embrace. We have all heard them stated at the start of our meetings, while we have symbolically lit our menorah in front of our chapters. But what do these principles really mean to us, besides just a short paragraph repeated monthly?
Citizenship
Jewish Heritage
Community Service
Philanthropy
Inter-Faith Relations
Tradition
Good Sisterhood
Prayer For World Jewry
Citizenship: We pledge our devotion to our beloved county, who blessing we shall never take for granted. We shall guard zealously our democratic rights and shall fulfill our duties as citizens.
Jewish Heritage: We have a magnificent Jewish heritage, which has enriched the civilization of every land. We shall aim to become imbued with an understanding and love of our Jewish culture so that we may be a conscious part of the people from whom we stem. We shall always strive to live up to the ideals, which are the essence of Jewish religious faith.
Community Service: We recognize our responsibility to render selfless service as citizens of the community in which we live.
Philanthropy: We shall always be concerned with the underprivileged and the distressed. We shall offer out help to those in need, recognizing that the ability to help others is a blessing and a responsibility.
Inter-faith relations: We represent one of the faiths that make up the diverse patterns of the world. We shall learn to understand and respect our neighbor. We shall so live as individuals and groups that we may reflect credit upon the Jewish people.
Tradition: We shall try to exemplify in our home the finest of Jewish family traditions.
Good Sisterhood: We make possible the warmth and joy of good sisterhood through our association in Chapters. We shall respect the rights of each member. We shall make our Chapter a true example of democratic living so that companionship and friendship may endure.
Prayer for World Jewry: Lighting the candles is a privilege we engage in that displays the freedom we, as B’nai B’rith Girls, and as Jews are able to exhibit. However, there are Jews in our world who are not allowed to observe Judaism freely. Oppressed Jewry is a major concern in our society. The light that is burning so brightly is the light of hope. We hope that one day all oppressed Jews will be able to practice Judaism as freely as we are doing here today.
