Shabbat Experiences

Shabbat Experiences at Congregation Beth Shalom
For thousands of years, Shabbat has offered the Jewish people a sacred pause — a time to reconnect with ourselves, our tradition, and each other. At Congregation Beth Shalom, we offer a wide variety of opportunities to make your Shabbat experience meaningful, joyful, and uniquely yours.

Friday Nights

Each Friday at 6:00 PM, we welcome Shabbat in the warm and intimate setting of the Feather Beit Midrash. Led by our inspiring clergy, this one-hour service includes soulful singing, thoughtful teaching, and moments for reflection — ideal for adults and school-age children alike.

On the first Friday of each month, we “selahbrate” birthdays, and on the second Friday, we “selahbrate” anniversaries. Come receive a special blessing and a sweet treat!

Shabbat Mornings

Our traditional egalitarian service begins at 9:30 AM in the Kamensky Sanctuary. Guided by the rhythm of the traditional liturgy, we read Torah and mark life’s sacred milestones — from B’nai Mitzvah, Aufrufs, and baby namings to anniversaries and milestone birthdays.

Children are always welcome in all services, accompanied by their grownups. Our Kamensky Sanctuary even features a Prayground — a cozy space with books and toys to help keep little hands engaged during worship.

Families with young children can also enjoy a rotating schedule of joyful, age-appropriate Shabbat programs each month. (See below for more details.)

Kiddush Lunch & Mincha

Shabbat doesn’t end with services — it continues with community. Join us after services each week for Kiddush lunch in the social hall, followed by Birkat Hamazon. This weekly gathering is the perfect chance to relax, schmooze, and reconnect with fellow members over a shared meal.

Looking for a quieter moment? Join us for Mincha (afternoon services), held approximately 45 minutes after the conclusion of morning services (but no earlier than 12:15 PM).

 Alternative & Family-Friendly Shabbat Options

(Please check our calendar for specific dates as these programs do not occur weekly.)

• Ark Adventures
  For children ages birth–4 and their grownups. Board the “ark” for an imaginative Shabbat storytelling adventure featuring music, puppetry, and sensory play.
• Camp Shira: A Family Shabbat
  A summer camp–style Kabbalat Shabbat for families with children in grades K–5. Enjoy musical worship in the round with family-led prayers and songs — followed by an ice cream bar!
• Families with Young Children Shabbat Experience
  A musical, themed Shabbat service and dinner for families with children ages birth–7.
• Family Shabbat
  A joyful, lay-led service for families with children ages 3–8. Sing songs, recite prayers, and hear a story — all in a warm, welcoming environment.
• Let There Be Play
  Designed for children ages 5–9. Explore the weekly Torah portion through hands-on play, theater, crafts, and storytelling. (Grownups optional.)
• Shabbat with a Twist
  A dynamic Shabbat experience for children ages birth–4 and their grownups — featuring yoga, challah braiding, crafts, and more!
• Shabbat B’Yachad
  Our Religious School students participate in a grade-level service followed by a festive congregational Shabbat dinner.
• Services Under the Sky / Havdalah Under the Stars
  Celebrate Shabbat or Havdalah outdoors with themed activities, delicious treats, and community connection for all ages.
• Study Minyan
  Dive deeper into the meaning of prayer and Torah through an intimate, text-centered Shabbat morning study session.

No matter what your age or stage, there’s a Shabbat experience waiting for you at Congregation Beth Shalom. Come find connections, celebration, and community.