Shabbos Project caps the holidays, Oct. 23

Shabbos Parashas Lech Lecha, Oct. 23 to 24, marks the third annual Shabbos Project, a worldwide movement that unites Jews — including those who may not regularly be observing Shabbos -— in honoring the day and fulfilling its mitzvos.

The unity experienced in bringing together the lulav and esrog during Sukkos will be replicated as Jews of all stripes braid challahs, learn and daven together.

The minim of Sukkos represent four different types of Jews. While the esrog, with its fragrance and taste, stands for Jews who do both good deeds and study Torah, the willow, with neither smell nor taste, symbolizes those without the knowledge or confidence to do either. Shabbos Project encourages us to bring Jews currently outside the circle of observance into agudas achdus, actualizing the unifying theme of Succos.

The Jewish Star urges its readers to share the wealth. One way to do this in our frum communities is for each of us to invite less- or non-observant Jewish co-workers, neighbors, friends and relatives to experience Shabbos at our home.

Beyond that, consider inviting Jewish female friends to the “Great Challah Bake, Long Island Style,” a ladies-only event at 8 pm on Wednesday, Oct. 21, at the Sands Atlantic Beach. This year’s theme is “kneading it together,” a play on words reflecting the need to unify and welcome all to observe Shabbos. Refer them to Challah Bake Long Island on Facebook for information to register, or organize a group to join you there.

Hundreds of Jewish women of all backgrounds and levels of observance will be mixing, kneading and braiding their own dough, saying the brocha together, making new friends, singing and dancing, plus taking home tips about how to keep Shabbos and a book called “Jew Got Questions?”

Think of the people you know who might appreciate an excuse to unplug from their electronics for several hours (that’s likely to include almost everyone who does not already observe Shabbos!).

Consider acquaintances who have asked questions about Jewish or Shabbos traditions; colleagues who remember being at their grandmother’s house for the Jewish holidays and happily recall those amazing meals, or neighbors who might enjoy a social night of talking and singing with others instead of eating alone.

By doing so, you will share and spread the beauty and joy of Shabbos to others, and spark increased ongoing observance among those close to you. Which is the perfect manifestation of Succos achdus as we move forward from this season of our joy.

Someone you know needs Shabbos now!