Chazak, chazak, v'nitchazeik.

Be strong, be strong, and let us strengthen each other.

Those are the words we utter when we open each Torah on Simchat Torah and once again complete the reading of Deuteronomy and immediately return to the first chapter of Genesis.

On the holiday of Simchat Torah we rejoice in the Torah that God handed down to the people of Israel.

But as adults we don't rejoice alone. Like Purim, this is also a holiday for our children. This is the chance to expose our children to the Torah and for them to learn why the scrolls have become the centrality of the Jewish people.

On Simchat Torah many synagogues unroll the scrolls so children, often for the first time, can see what the writing of scribes on old parchment looks like. For many adults, the appearance of the Torah is still a mystery. It shouldn't be.

But Simchat Torah is not just an educational experience; it's also a celebratory time. Simchat Torah teaches our children about the joys of the Torah and the joys of Judaism.

Traditionally, children march around the synagogue aisles with a flag of Israel topped by an apple to signify the sweetness of the new year and the fruit of Sukkot. In front of them are their elders, their parents or grandparents, carrying all the synagogue's Torahs.

It is the stuff memories are made of. Kids who march at Simchat Torah services every year won't forget that experience, and probably will want their own children to someday enjoy it as well.

But it's up to you to bring your children or grandchildren to Simchat Torah services. Don't wait until they are in their teens and then complain about their lack of observance. Make Jews out of the kids now by taking them to synagogue at times like these.

Chazak, chazak, v'nitchazeik.

Be strong, be strong, and let us strengthen each other.