For the past six years I have been part of a chavurah, a group of friends, with eleven other families.  We get together once a month to celebrate Shabbat.  We began by gathering from 4pm 'till about 7pm.  We would spend a little afternoon time together, have a discussion, a brief Havdallah ceremony, dinner, and then go home.  Now once a month we do a Shabbat morning through Havdallah.

(Rick Abrams, Director of Education, Temple Beth El of Northern Westchester, Chappaqua, NY)

Many people, like Rick, are finding chavurot to be excellent doorways into warm and communal Shabbat observance.  We'd love to hear your stories,      so please share!

For more on the chavurah phenomenon check out what's happening at Congregation Beth Israel of San Diego.  Also, take a look at the new URJ program on Shabbat Chavurot.

Want help starting your own chavurah? See this helpful guide.