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The word Shmita literally translates to the ‘year of release’ or Sabbatical year. This was a time that the farm land was laid to rest, crops were shared, and a vision of generosity and community was abundant. We can also celebrate the shmita year more internally — within our own bodies and minds, releasing habitual patterns and allowing our body to rest.
In honoring this vision, Bonai Shalom will be holding an in-house Shabbaton.
The Shabbaton begins on November 7th as a Friday night contemplative service with meditation and sitting practices. A hearty warm, comforting soup will be served. Saturday morning, November 8th begins with a traditional Shabbat service at 9:30 am, followed by a delicious lunch at 12:30 pm. Our afternoon exploration begins at 1:45 pm with three activities:
Option one, 1:45-2:30 pm (please note time change) is an outdoor adventure for families with young children led by Bonai’s own Meghan Letts. Who is also on the Hazon Advisory Board and received her Jewish outdoor educational training from the TEVA Seminar at the Isabella Freedman Center. This is a guided experience that uncovers the healing secrets of the land.
Option two. 1:45-2:45 pm is a gentle yoga class with Nicole Koukou which invites you to adventure within your own mind and body. You can learn more about Nicole here.
Option three 2:45-3:30 pm is a Shmita discussion led by Hazon’s Boulder Director, Becky O’Brian! Becky has been with Hazon since the founding of its Colorado office in 2010. She offers deep knowledge in the shmita year and Jewish outdoor and environmental education.
The fun continues with stories, songs and third meal at 3:30 pm with Ru Wing! This is a magical time for sharing and celebrating. Shabbat ends with a musical Havdallah at 5:32 pm
Peggy Dyer of One Million Faces will be joining us for the evening to take more photos of those who didn’t get their photo taken previously and help guide us through the art process from 6:00 – 9:00 pm. This is open for all to attend- even if you are not attending the entire Shabbaton. Participants will use the photos taken from Bonai’s Creekfest to create a community art piece that will be showcased as an outside mural at Bonai Shalom! Peggy Dyer will be joining us for the evening to take more photos of those who didn’t get their photo taken previously and help guide us through the art process.
Bonai Shalom welcomes your participation and involvement! Bonai will not be asking for a fee to participate, however please RSVP so they know how much food to prepare. Sponsorship opportunities are welcomed and available. Your financial contributions will help make this event possible and future shmita inspired events possible. This program is also made possible by Hazon. To RSVP please contact Bonai Shalom at 303-442-6605 or office@bonaishalom.org.
