Our 7 ^th grade girls had a most enjoyable and meaningful Shabbat together this past Shabbat at their Shabbaton in West Hempstead. Leading up to the Shabbaton, the girls were involved in preparing Divrei Torah and creating beautiful centerpieces that reflected their theme of Achrayut (Responsibility). As the week progressed, the excitement for the upcoming Shabbaton increased until, finally, they all appeared in their Shabbat best in Congregation Eitz Chaim for Tefilat Mincha and Kabbalat Shabbat. Immediately after davening, the girls joined Rabbi and Mrs. Menchel, Rabbi Silverman, Mrs. Greenberger and family, Morah Ben Ari and family, Mrs. Lermer and family and Mrs. Hus and her husband for the Seudat Shabbat. Delicious Sushi and Chinese food were accompanied by Divrei Torah and Zemirot. The evening ended with a spirited Oneg which included singing games and skits (and Shabbat nosh!).

Shabbat morning began with Tefilah at Eitz Chaim and, immediately after the special Kiddush, the girls were privileged to participate in a special Shiur given by Rabbi Menchel. This was followed by another delicious Seudat Shabbat with more Divrei Torah and Zemirot. Immediately after lunch, the girls met with a panel of three Har Torah alumni, Jordy Gross, Leah Rubin and Melanie Sokolow, who each shared their own unique perspective on the high school experience. After an early Mincha, the girls participated in an “Ask the Rabbi” session with Rabbi Efrem Scwalb, the Rabbi of Eitz Chaim. Rabbi Schwalb was very impressed with the caliber of the questions. After another round of fun games and activities, the girls walked to Morah Ariella Goldsmith’s parents’ home for Seudah Shlishit to end Shabbat with singing and shared Torah. The Shabbaton ended with an inspirational Havdalah and the girls went home with beautiful memories and increased feelings of Achdut (Unity) with each other and with their teachers.