ShabbatUK @ Hampstead Garden Suburb Synagogue
Event
Inspiring the youngest contingent of the shul membership was a recurring theme of HGSS’ ShabbatUK bonanza, which featured a huge marquee decked out as Abraham and Sarah’s tent, world-class speakers and manifold communal meals that buzzed with ruach. An energetic Youth Friday Night Dinner that offered a programme of fun activities attracted over 100 people, while hundreds flocked to the adult Friday Night and various Challah Makes.
Objectives
To make use of existing structures to integrate Shabbat UK activity into everyday shul activity
To engage the youth in a more meaningful way during Friday night, to be continued through the youth directors and madrichim
To create the Abraham’s Tent theme in the hope it will be a great springboard for more involvement in children’s services, BA and Tribe
Evaluation from Carolyn Bogush
“Approximately 42 family groupings attended the Children’s Challah Make as part of the Shabbat UK programme. It was an inspiring event – full of enthusiasm, energy and fun. In addition, 101 youth attended Friday night dinner which was a huge success with positive feedback from the youth about being involved with Shabbat UK”
Participant Feedback
- We found both the Friday Night and Havdalah joyful, inspiring and truly communal. My wife wants to attend shul every Friday night and do more at Havdalah
- What impressed me most was the wonderful atmosphere that filled the hall and it was delightful just to be there, and for those who missed out, they missed out big time
- There is no doubt that our Rabbinic team are second to none; they carry the community spirit that is promoted by the Chief through the whole year, and it culminates with 600 members attending ShabbatUK
- I loved the Challah Make – it was very smoothly organised with a good variety of activities to keep us occupied whilst we waited for the dough to raise and clear instructions. Thank you to all the organisers
