Shabbat is a time to relax, light candles, enjoy a dinner and spend time with family.
On Friday, January 31, members of the community are invited to welcome Shabbat together at 6 p.m. at the Jewish Community Center. At this family-friendly Community Shabbat dinner, there will be a kosher meal, songs, crafts and a scavenger event. For dessert, it’s all hands on deck. Participants will have the opportunity to decorate their own cookies.
The dinner will cost $15 for adults and $8 for children. RSVP to Mary Jean Timmel at 238-2722 or mjtimmel@jewishlouisville.org or register online at jewishlouisville.org/shabbat.
Families are asked to bring their own Shabbat candlesticks and challah covers so they can include some of their personal Shabbat practice in the evening.
A similar event last year drew more than 100 people. “It’s a nice opportunity to celebrate Shabbat with people who may attend different congregations or may not belong to any congregation,” said Tzivia Levin Kalmes, a development director who is helping organize the event. “The experience can bring families closer to their Judaism and involve their children in the celebration.”
“The Community Shabbat was a huge success last year and the feedback from all participants was really positive,” said Tracy Geller, who helped spearhead last year’s dinner. “There is a need and a desire among many of us for there to be a neutral forum to host a community event like this. We want our children to enjoy and appreciate spending time with their families and other families in the Jewish community, regardless of affiliation, and celebrate Shabbat. We are hoping for another fabulous turnout and encourage everyone to help spread the word.”
This year’s event is hosted by Tracy and Mark Geller, Lisa and Howard Kaplin, Carol and Paul Levitch and Kim and Scott Norton.