UNITY SHABBAT SCHEDULE RELEASED

San Diego, CA -- From October 23rd through 25th, Jews from all over San Diego County will be “Keeping It Together” as part of an International Shabbat being celebrated in over 350 cities in more than 35 countries. The intent is to create a greater connection to personal heritage, create community unity and express global pride through a shared and meaningful Shabbat. Organizers of Shabbat San Diego expect to involve more than 10,000 local participants in what would be one of the largest Jewish community programs in the history of San Diego. Shabbat San Diego is coordinating and planning, in conjunction with over 100 participating local congregations, schools and community organizations, free events for the affiliated and unaffiliated over 3 days.

“Participants are encouraged to get unplugged from all electronics, daily routines, distractions and demands and plug into Shabbat, a time of individual rest, renewal and spiritual contemplation as well as community building and as a global expression of Jewish identity and solidarity”, said Robyn Lichter, a Shabbat San Diego organizer.

“On Thursday October 23rd at 5.30pm there will be a mega community wide challah making event in Carmel Valley limited to the first 1500 registrants”, continued Lichter. ”Then on Friday night, October 24th after services, there will be over 20 large community Shabbat dinners across the county as well as more than 50 privately hosted dinners for those who sign-up. On Saturday October 25th congregational services will be open to all. In the afternoon, study opportunities and guest lectures will be held at selected venues.”

“The program culminates on Saturday evening after dark with a touching Havdalah service starring the children of San Diego and featuring IDF Chief Cantor Shia Abramson and 7 man IDF choir, followed by a high tempo musical celebration starring The Maccabeats direct from New York City “.

“It is essential that participants sign up at our website, www.shabbatsandiego.org , in order to ensure participation and entry into events,” said Claire Ellman, another organizer.

Shabbat San Diego is a grassroots organization whose mission is to promote Jewish identity and community through the experience of sharing a Shabbat. This program is conducted in conjunction with The Shabbos Project and sponsored by the Leichtag Foundation and San Diego Private Bank as well as the generous members of the community who are identified on the website.