Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the Shabbat project?
The Shabbat Project is an international grassroots movement that brings together Jews from all walks of life and all levels of observance to keep one Shabbat, celebrated in a spirit of global Jewish unity. First launched in South Africa in 2013, the Shabbat Project has, through a team of trailblazing volunteer partners, spread to over 1500 cities and 100 countries.
The concept is simple: Jews from across the spectrum – religious, secular and traditional, young and old, from all corners of the world – unite to experience one full Shabbat together.
The Shabbat Project is about creating a new Jewish future based on Jewish unity, pride and values. The Shabbat Project transcends the barriers that seem to separate us. It is our opportunity to rejuvenate family and community life, restore Jewish pride and identity, and strengthen Jewish unity across the globe.
Are kids welcome?
Of course! Shabbat is all about family. We will have age appropriate food, babysitters and children programming to keep them engaged. Please check our events page for details and updates.
I’m down with dinner but prayer services is boring and not my thing.
We get that. Services can sometimes be difficult to get into. But we want to change that. So before dinner we are having kabbalat shabbat services that we think will leave you inspired. We are bringing in some special guests, the traveling chassidum, to liven things up with communal singing that will be move you even if you don’t know the words or have difficulty with hebrew. You will feel the spirit of shabbat descend into our “shteltl” and it will make dinner all the more special.
I don’t observe shabbat, is this really for me?
People observe shabbat in different ways and to different degrees. This is an event where people of all levels of observance are welcome and it's an judgement free zone. But to get the most out of shabbat it's something to be done with others. Sharing shabbat can be transformational. Come and join us. It will be an experience you won’t quickly forget.
Is there a dress code?
Different communities have different dress standards. So outwardly we may all dress and appear different, but internally we are all Jews. One of the points of this event is to bring Jews of all stripes together. So we don't care how you dress, we just want you to come and enjoy. Many people do honor Shabbat by dressing in more formal clothing.
I’m concerned that I might be judged for not being observant.
If that was the case, why have the event? We are here to make common connections and enjoy shabbat together, not worry about people's individual practice. That’s nobody's business.
Who are the Traveling Chassidum?
They are a friendly and talented group of chassidic families from New York with a mission to travel the country to engage with communities and help make the shabbat of a lifetime through dancing, singing and old fashioned Jewish unity, spirit and warmth.
Whats up with the funny hats they wear?
You are probably thinking of a shtreimel and don’t let it scare you!! Its a fur hat worn on shabbat and special occasions. It was commonly worn by noblemen in eastern Europe and adopted by many jewish communities several hundred years ago. You might have some ancestors that wore them once. It’s still worn today by many chassidic communities in keeping with tradition. If you see one, don’t be shy and ask to try it on. Our chassidic guests love to share their traditions.
It's so easy to focus on the things that divide us. Shtreimel, Black hat, no hat, velvet kippah, knitted kippa, purple yarmulke or bald head. All are welcome at the Shabbat project!!
What's the best way to enjoy the whole shabbat experience?
We have a whole 25 hours of programming with special services, amazing meals, singing, dancing and great conversation. If you want to max out your shabbat experience be our guest…literally.. We have families who are happy to host guests so you can have the full experience.
Why are many of the events being held at an orthodox synagogue?
Well its gotta be somewhere….We are bringing in a traditional group who have very specific religious and dietary standards. You don’t have to be at an orthodox synagogue to enjoy shabbat but it makes sense for them to perform and eat at a facility that they are comfortable with. Plus there are a lot of people at an orthodox synagogue who are into shabbat. So lets harness that energy and see what we can find in common and leave divisions at the door.
Talk about divisions...let’s talk about the elephant in the room, separate gender seating. I would go to services but can’t separate myself from my significant other?
We hear you. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the design of the synagogue. Separate gender seating can be an adjustment. But you are not committing for life. So give it a try and see how difficult it really is. The worst that happens is you walk out and you’re a little early for the next meal. But if you really want to learn more about this topic and misperceptions about the role of gender in Judaism we can talk this out.
Is this a synagogue recruitment event?
Absolutely not. This is a shabbat recruitment event. This event is funded by local community members across the religious spectrum who share one common goal: they feel shabbat is important. Enjoy shabbat together and bring it back to the synagogue or space of your choice and share the excitement.