One of the most beautiful things about Shabbat is the chance to slow down. Torah and Rabbinical teachings tell us to separate the Sabbath from the rest of the week. To refrain from work. Not strain ourselves. Unburden for the day.
This all sounds lovely… in theory.
But if you have children, this can be a laughable pipe dream.
Raising children is work. It is a strain and a burden (though one I wouldn’t change a moment of, because the gifts are worth every ounce of effort). And you don’t get a day off. Even Shabbos.
So when mine were little, we looked for opportunities to embrace the objective of being mindful and present in Shabbat. Ways to connect with God. To embrace our community. To really be able to bring the kids into the beauty of these Jewish traditions and rituals.
Cincy Jewfolk, in partnership with PJ Library, has found a way to help our community do this.
Photo from a 2024 Shabbat in the Park hosted by our sister site, TC Jewfolk in the Twin Cities. There are 3 Shabbats in the Park in Cincinnati this summer!
It’s Shabbat in the Park.
This is an opportunity to raise your family, parent your kids, AND be present for Shabbat.
This summer, somewhere near you, there will be one of three Shabbat in the Park gatherings.
Here’s how it works.
You pack up your people and a picnic dinner. And … that’s it! You just show up.
The organizers, members of your community and a representative from PJ Library, have brought the juice and challah.
The local park district has provided the playground and the space has been reserved by Cincy Jewfolk.
Tradition has made the activity – Shabbat within community.
And nature has supplied the perfect background.
PJ Library Professional, Marisa Phillips, who is helping coordinate the Shabbat in the Park program said, “I think families will love this new opportunity to celebrate Shabbat together with new friends and old friends in a casual setting where the kids can play and the adults can sit and chat. Being able to pack their own dinners will ensure that everyone will be happy with dinner options!”
Photo from a 2024 Shabbat in the Park hosted by our sister site, TC Jewfolk in the Twin Cities. Shabbat in the Park is a free event hosted by Cincy Jewfolk and PJ Library.
What a wonderful way to welcome Shabbat.
You get to take your family outside. Breathe in fresh air. Meet others in your community who are also looking for a way to welcome Shabbat (and potentially make some future playdates). Enjoy food together. And smile as all the kids soak up the playground.
It sounds so simple. And it is. And when you’re raising your family every day, it’s hard to prioritize this slowdown. But I promise, it’s worth it.
Photo from a 2024 Shabbat in the Park hosted by our sister site, TC Jewfolk in the Twin Cities. Come join us and meet your friends and neighbors at Shabbat in the Park this summer!
So right now, click here to RSVP to the first Shabbat in the Park of the summer.
Imagine the breeze through the trees, the late sunset, and the sound of your community enjoying the evening … and RSVP and mark your calendar – commit to carving out all of that goodness for you and your family this summer.
This is a chance to meet your friends and neighbors, expand your Jewish network, and enjoy the beautiful laughter that comes whenever anyone is on a playground swing.
About partnering with Cincy Jewfolk, Phillips said, “I love the idea of providing families with an easy low barrier way to celebrate Shabbat while being able to explore new parks in Cincinnati and meet new families!”
Join your neighbors, Cincy Jewfolk, and PJ Library for Shabbat in the Park this summer!
Click here to learn more and to RSVP.
