Shabbat Across Ohen took place on January 30, 2015. Photo credit: June Schechner.
Oheb Shalom Congregation in South Orange, New Jersey turned an ordinary Friday night into a beautiful and intimate gathering of families who celebrated “Shabbat Across Oheb.”
More than 150 members of the congregation were hosted by 17 families for Shabbat dinner and conversation in an atmosphere of friendship.
Lora Wegner, the organizer of the event, said, “We intentionally placed participants with people they did not know well so that our members could get to know each other in new ways. Belonging to Oheb Shalom Congregation is like belonging to a large, extended family, and we wanted our members to get to know one another better.”
The idea was a clear success, with many participants reporting that they appreciated the chance to get to know other members and celebrate Shabbat together. Many said they were anxious for more such events.
“This will definitely be an annual event,” said Wegner, “and more gatherings for our members to connect to each other will be planned.”
