In a momentous gathering this past weekend, 850 members of the SAR High School community, including students, faculty and their families, joined together for a Schoolwide Shabbaton. Amidst an intense 24 hours of thoughtful learning, spirited ruach, camaraderie and fun, all who attended shared a sense of gratitude and excitement to be a part of this truly unforgettable weekend. From beautiful singing at Kabbalat Shabbat, to spirited zemirot after each meal, and a rocking tish on Friday night, the energy throughout the event was felt by all.
“Coming together as an entire high school community for a shabbat is an incredibly powerful and enriching experience for all who attend. There are so many ways in which students and faculty build and strengthen relationships over the course of the Shabbaton,” said Amanda Klatt, director of Student Activities.
The weekend kicked off with a trip to Chelsea Piers in Stamford, where students engaged in ice skating, gymnastics, basketball, volleyball, ultimate frisbee, batting cages, rock climbing and more.
Once at the hotel, the students gathered for lunch and watched a video spiel introducing the Shabbaton theme, “Am Yisrael Chai,” explored in thought-provoking learning groups, and intriguing elective sessions.
Rabbi Tully Harcsztark addressed the entire community before Musaf, discussing that Jews continuously see the possibility of a better future, and make a conscious decision to be the change that we want to see in the world.
Shabbat afternoon was spent strengthening connections, interacting with friends and faculty, and playing games. During the schoolwide competition of “Finish the Lyrics” and gradewide “Headbandz” games the high energy and spirit was palpable.
After seuda shelishit, Rabbi Jonathan Kroll led an incredible slow shira and shared some inspirational words about Parshat Tetzaveh. Shabbat culminated with a truly amazing Havdala and chagiga, in a beautiful display of ruach, fitting of an SAR gathering.
While the lower grades cleared out after Shabbat ended, the seniors stayed until Sunday to watch a renowned hypnotist perform. The seniors spent the rest of the night securing the bond they established throughout their years at SAR and relishing the fleeting time they have left together. It was a schoolwide shabbaton that will never be forgotten.
