A core group of University of Rochester Hillel students, approximately 60, have undertaken the development of an elaborate total Shabbat experience at the University of Rochester Hillel Foundation, it was announced by Rabbi Joseph H. Levine, Director of the university’s B’nai B’rith Hillel Foundation. The students prepare the Shabbat evening meal and Sabbath luncheon, utilizing the kosher kitchen in the Interfaith Chapel of the University of Rochester. Students from the Jewish Cookery class of the Free School of Jewish Studies help in the preparation. This involves the baking of challahs, the preparation of the total meal, which is strictly kosher. The Shabbat meal attracts an increasing number of students, Rabbi Levine said. It is combined with the singing of Zemirot, all of the traditional Jewish rituals, including the lighting of the candles, the Kiddush and the Beirkat Hatmazon. In addition, guest faculty speakers come to discuss current issues in Jewish life. Also, the opportunity presents itself for informal discussion of the Parashat Ha-Shuvah. Traditional students daven Kabbalat Shabbat at the appropriate time. In addition, following the Shabbat evening meal, there is a late Friday evening service, for conservative and liberal students–the format varies. It is either conservative, reform or reconstructionist. Many students write original prayers and give sermonettes. Following this, there is an Oneg Shabbat in various dormitory and residence halls.
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