By Chabad Girls Academy
Shabbatons present a unique opportunity for every student to put into practice the values they are exposed to in the classroom, and in a relaxed and nurturing environment. At CGA, this translates into healthy social interactions coupled with a warm chassidishe atmosphere.
To build the excitement towards our annual Shabbaton, our students compile and complete their own personal quotas, such as tasks planned and achieved over Yomim Tovim, composing weekly Divrei Torah to be shared at the Shabbos table, together with their overall academic grades in tests.
This takes positivity and goal-seeking to a new level, while in many aspects it engenders an exceptionally positive atmosphere in school, not only in the run-up to our Shabbatons but also during, with the glow lasting for long afterwards.
Last weekend, the girls’ commitment and hard work paid off! We watched the breathtakingly beautiful countryside roll by from the windows of our comfortable coach.
The magnificent accommodation provided the ideal setting in which to conduct our Shabbaton; a luxurious, warm, and inviting environment.
CGA Shabbatons are comprised of interactive, social, and educational activities that integrate learning and exploration.
Shabbos is centered around a theme and this year’s theme was ‘Just Jew It!’
The theme challenged our students to look back at their productive year and take their learning and experiences into their own hands – bringing learning concepts into action which we hope will remain with them throughout the summer and for the upcoming school year.
To help encourage that mindset, we were joined by three of our very own alumni who brought their boundless energy with them which greatly added to the fun.
Our program began with some tie-dying and a delicious pre-Shabbos catered meal. Shabbos started with candle-lighting and group davening which were followed by a song-filled and spirited evening, accompanied by (yet more) delicious Shabbos food.
The Friday night meal led right into thought-provoking workshops where discussions and question/answer forums lasted well into the early hours of the morning.
These groups were run by our outstanding counselors and dedicated staff members who worked tirelessly, planning every detail of the Shabbaton to make it a unique and memorable experience for our girls. The goal, as with all we do at CGA, is for our students to return home with renewed chayus and a strong connection to the Rebbe.
On Shabbos morning, we were welcomed to a delectable spread prepared by our very own eighth graders which included delectable brownies, chocolate spider cookies and blondies.
We sang the Shabbos davening together and then enjoyed Shabbos lunch just like one big, happy family.
During Shalosh Seudos, we held a surprise birthday party for our very own 7th grader, Riva Brusowankin, and the festive atmosphere continued with an interactive Pirkei Avos Shiur, followed by unique and innovative skits on various mishnayos presented by our students.
Motzei Shabbos was heralded by Havdola, followed by a game show and barbeque that was thoroughly enjoyed by all, and this marked the end of a spectacular weekend.
A Shabbaton accomplishes so much outside of the classroom. The caring and relaxed atmosphere encourages friendships to be strengthened. The entertainment and thought-provoking discussions along with the delectable menus and luxurious accommodations all contribute in equal measure towards making Shabbos a memorable experience both spiritually and physically.
The learning, laughter, and inspiration in the company of great friends and wonderful teachers and coaches will keep us inspired until next year and it won’t be long before our dedicated staff and alumni start putting into motion all the myriad plans that will enhance CGA’s 7th Annual Shabbaton, may it be held in Yerushalayim with Moshiach Tzidekinu.
