At Central Synagogue, we strive to foster a sense of community within our large congregation, and endeavor to engage children and families in a variety of Jewish experiences, from classroom education to holiday celebration. While many intimate connections are made within our Nursery and Religious School programs and youth groups, we firmly believe that the family unit can develop these relationships together as well. To that aim, since we know Jewish holidays and life cycle events provide a framework for gathering together, we offer a few variations on Shabbat for families to enjoy together.

Tot Shabbat

Tot Shabbat occurs every Saturday morning unless it is a holiday or a three day weekend. We hold Tot Shabbat services for families with pre-school age children. For many of us, we have warm memories of experiencing Shabbat as children, and we hope to encourage similar memories in your children. All Tot Shabbats will be accompanied by at least one member of the clergy, along with Matt Check from the Religious School and song leader Joanie Leeds. Join us for songs, stories and words of prayer on select Saturday mornings. Snacks are served at the conclusion of every session.

Shabbat Mishpachah

Shabbat Mishpachah, family Shabbat, is a monthly program designed especially for graduates of our Tot Shabbat programs, and our students in kindergarten through third grade. At Shabbat Mishpachah, parents and children join together in the Sanctuary at 6:00 p.m. to welcome Shabbat with the congregation. Then the children head downstairs to the Atrium for an age-appropriate service led by members of the clergy and some members of our Full Tim Teacher team. Children rejoin their parents in the Sanctuary for the conclusion of the prayer service, and for kiddush and motzi.

Religious School Family Shabbat Dinners

Approximately 5-6 times over the course of the school year, the Director of Lifelong Learning and Full Time Teachers host a Shabbat dinner for all families with children in our Religious School. Families join the congregation in worship at our usual 6PM service, and at its conclusion, proceed downstairs to the Pavilion for Shabbat blessings, dinner, activities and music to enhance the rest of the evening’s celebration of the holiday. While there is no fee for the dinner, RSVP’s are required for this meal.