(Courtesy of Congregation Heichal Moshe) Cong. Heichal Moshe on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, under the leadership of the Prager Rav, Rabbi Moshe Vorhand, shlita recently hosted a vibrant and welcoming shabbaton program for singles, attracting a diverse crowd from across the United States. The event, coordinated by Yakov Yosef Felberbaum, offered participants a chance to connect and celebrate their shared faith in a warm, engaging and authentic Chasidic atmosphere.

The shabbaton kicked off with a beautiful Kabbalat Shabbat ceremony led by Yumi Lowy, Moshe Mintz and a talented choir. Friday night dinner, Shabbat day meals and Havdalah were all held at the Vorhand Shul (as it’s affectionately called).

Rabbi Vorhand himself offered a heartfelt welcome and shared insightful divrei Torah throughout Shabbat. Renowned speakers Rabbi Avraham Marmorstein, Rebbetzin Sara Marmorstein and radio personality Rabbi Zev Brenner further inspired the attendees.

The program also included engaging icebreaker activities and a thoughtfully arranged speed dating session facilitated by Debbie and Yochanan Sousson. Daytime prayers were led by Chazzan Gedalya Kessner, followed by a lively kiddush and lunch.

The shabbaton culminated in a beautiful musical Havdalah led by Michael Macks and Yaniel Leitner, followed by a Motzei Shabbat kumzitz held at a spacious art loft in Chelsea. Hundreds of singles gathered for an evening filled with music, laughter and meaningful connections. The talented Yumi Lowy, Moshe Mintz and Leitner provided live entertainment, while world-renowned matchmakers Baila Sebrow and Phyllis Blackman offered warm words of encouragement and support.

Rebbetzin Sara Vorhand, assisted by Mindy Kessner, Riki Hager, Virginia Freidman, Tami Yellin and Rabbanit Adena Berkowitz, personally greeted each participant at the entrance, fostering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

The shabbaton concluded with a delicious Sunday morning breakfast, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

Cong. Heichal Moshe continues to foster meaningful connections and this shabbaton exemplified the spirit of unity, faith and community. Due to overwhelming demand and the event’s popularity, the shul plans to host future shabbatons for singles to accommodate the many who couldn’t attend and to encourage more marriages.