This past weekend, the eighth grade had their simcha- and ruach-filled shabbaton. Eighth graders gathered at Congregation Ahavath Torah, participating in both the Asheknazi and Sephardi minyanim over the course of Shabbat, in true BPY fashion, continuing to expose themselves to different ways of praying. In addition, the eighth graders had loads of fun singing together with spirit and kavana. Theamazing BPY faculty helped greatly in enhancing the experience, involving fun as well as meaning this past Shabbat. Teachers along with the eighth grade student representatives provided the students with engaging programs to keep them occupied throughout the day, such as Human Apples to Apples, a game of Pim Pam Pom, and a meaningful discussion with the wonderful Judaic studies faculty.

The shabbaton reminded the eighth graders to cherish the short amount of time they have left at BPY with their close-knit grade. Many even said they felt closer to their classmates after Shabbat, adding that it was an important and enjoyable bonding experience. There truly is no family like BPY! The fun didn’t end at Havdala for eighth graders! The entire BPY middle school met at Ahavath Torah on Motzei Shabbat for a melava malka. Students enjoyed snacks and drinks, and catching up after a Shabbat apart from each other. They then sat together in a circle, sang songs and heard stories—aimed at providing additional meaning to the specific songs we had been singing. After the signing and stories, the students enjoyed dipping yummy foods in the luxurious chocolate fountains. What a beautiful way to escort out Shabbat!