This upcoming Shabbaton is sure to be a highlight of the year for a group of young professionals from The Manhattan Jewish Experience (MJE), who are eagerly preparing to leave the fast-paced energy of New York City behind to experience a truly unforgettable weekend. Hosted by Congregation Aish Kodesh, this “Shabbat in the Suburbs” promises to be a time of connection, reflection, and growth for all those in attendance.
Founded by Rabbi Mark N. Wildes in 1998, MJE is a warm and open community that provides a welcoming space for millennials with limited Jewish background to explore Jewish life and make meaningful connections. Over the years, MJE has successfully reconnected thousands of young men and women to Jewish tradition, Israel, and a Torah way of life. In fact, MJE has been the catalyst for 382 couples to meet and marry. MJE offers a wide range of inclusive, engaging, and innovative programs for Jewish 20s/30s, including Shabbat dinners, holiday events, winter and spring retreats, classes, beginner services, trips to Israel, a one-on-one learning program, and much more.
On Friday night, MJE’s group of 30 young men and women will join Congregation Aish Kodesh for a lively and heartfelt Kabbalat Shabbat. The evening will be followed by a large and spirited group meal, where Rabbi Wildes, as well as one of the MJE participants, will be speaking.
On Shabbat morning, MJE will return to Aish Kodesh for a meaningful prayer service and delicious Shabbat lunch. Each MJE participant will be hosted in smaller groups by the gracious shabbaton hosts, ensuring a personal and welcoming experience for all.
As the day progresses, the excitement continues to build starting with Mincha at 3:30 pm, followed by a trio of captivating events. At 4:00 pm, Rabbi David Fohrman will deliver a thought-provoking Parsha class, which will be followed by the always-entertaining “Ask the Rabbi” session with Rabbi Wildes and Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal at 5:30PMl. The Torah sessions will conclude at 7:30PM with an enjoyable Third Meal, during which Charlie Harary will deliver inspiring divrei Torah. Shabbat will conclude with beautiful singing and dancing, Maariv, and a musical Havdalah.
MJE extends its deepest gratitude to Congregation Aish Kodesh, Rabbi Moshe Weinberger, Rabbi David Fohrman, Charlie Harary, and all of the gracious hosts for their invaluable partnership. Special thank you to Rabbi and Rebbetzin Storch for helping organize and coordinate details of the Shabbaton. For more information about this Shabbaton or MJE in general, please contact [email protected] and/or [email protected].
