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Shabbat

שבת
Every Friday evening to Saturday night

Shabbat Shalom!

What is Shabbat?

Shabbat is the crown jewel of Jewish life — a weekly day of rest, reflection, and spiritual renewal that has sustained the Jewish people for thousands of years.

Beginning at sunset on Friday and ending at nightfall on Saturday, Shabbat is a time to step away from the ordinary and enter what the tradition calls a "palace in time." We light candles, recite Kiddush over wine, and break bread (challah) together.

Shabbat is not simply about what we don't do (work, technology) — it's about what we gain: presence with family, connection to community, rest for the soul, and gratitude for creation.

Traditions & Customs

1
Candle lighting — welcoming Shabbat with two (or more) candles
2
Kiddush — blessing over wine sanctifying the day
3
Challah — blessing and eating braided bread
4
Shabbat meals with family and guests
5
Synagogue services (Friday night and Saturday morning)
6
Havdalah — a beautiful ceremony marking the end of Shabbat with wine, spices, and a braided candle

Learn More About Shabbat

Celebrate Shabbat with L'Chaim Center

Join our community for Shabbat programs, events, and celebrations on Chicago's North Shore.