Shabbaton at B’nai Sholom: A Day Overflowing With Learning, Fun

Congregation Reaches Inward for 40th Anniversary Event

The outstanding talents of B’nai Sholom congregants will inspire participants in a special “Celebrating Ourselves” Shabbaton Saturday, November 3.

One in a series of events throughout 2012 celebrating the congregation’s 40th anniversary, the day-long Shabbaton will feature congregant-led workshops and activities highlighting the expertise of B’nai Sholom members.

B’nai Sholom is located at 420 Whitehall Road, Albany.

“We have such a wide variety of talent in the congregation, and sharing it all seems like a great way to get everybody together to learn and have a good time,” said co-chair Libby Liebschutz of Delmar.

Packed full of opportunities for learning, singing, spirituality and fellowship, the day begins at 9 a.m. with registration, coffee and bagels, then a choice of Torah study, a craft activity or a theatrical warm-up exercise from 9:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m.  Rabbi Donald P. Cashman will lead a dramatic Shabbat morning service at 10:30 a.m. featuring prominent attorneys Laurie Shanks and Terry Kindlon as a defense lawyer (Shanks) interviewing her client, Abraham (Kindlon), who stands accused of the attempted murder of Isaac. Child care will be available during the service with advance expression of interest.

Following a potluck lunch, the afternoon will feature three sessions each offering a choice of three diverse workshops. Topics include:

• Mah Jong for beginners;
• Etiquette for interacting with people with disabilities;
• Sustainable food choices;
• Folk dancing;
• The courts and gay marriage;
• Beekeeping;
• The causes of terrorist activities against the U.S.;
• Modern ambivalence about Shabbat observance;
• Gardening in a time of climate change.

A song session, reception and Havdalah will close out an extraordinary day at 6 p.m.

“We have structured the Shabbaton to appeal to a wide range of ages and interests,” said co-chair Carol Smith of McKownville. “While we hope people will want to stay for the entire day, we recognize that, with busy schedules, some will come only for part of the day or perhaps go home and return for the final reception and Havdalah. All are welcome at any point during the day.”

The November 3 Shabbaton is free and open to the public. Advance registration is required for the potluck lunch.

For more information and to register for the potluck lunch, contact the B’nai Sholom office at office@bnaisholom.albany.ny.us or phone 518-482-5283.