Friday night is a festive occasion—a time to slow down, eat well, sing, and engage deeply with one another. Traditionally, we welcome the Sabbath bride by lighting candles, reciting Kiddush, and saying a blessing over challah. We bless the children among us and some of us turn to bless each other. We sing a song to welcome angels and welcome guests to our table. Some people find Shabbat peace in simply joining together to watch a movie or play a game. As we gather with loved ones or take time for ourselves, Friday night offers us the opportunity to look back on the week that has passed. We begin to slow down and unwind as we open to the peace of Shabbat.
Candle lighting blessings for a sabbatical year
“May the light of the Shabbat candles cause us all to see each other as part of our shared community”
“Here, in hearth of heart, / All is made whole.”
“We do not celebrate Shabbat, / We receive it.”
“The past and the present are one here”
An alternative ritual for not lighting Shabbat candles
“We don’t have to struggle on without end”
Serving as central organization of the Reconstructionist movement
Training the next generation of groundbreaking rabbis
Modeling respectful conversations on pressing Jewish issues
Curating original, Jewish rituals, and convening Jewish creatives
Ready to go deeper? Join our 4-week Soulwork series—register by Monday at noon and receive a free Malachim Angel Cards deck!
Great for devoted readers, seasoned writers and those interested in storytelling!
Subscribe for the latest rituals, online learning opportunities, and unique Judaica finds from our store.
