What does it mean to create sacred time in our busy lives? How can we make Shabbat more meaningful, both individually and as a community?
Join the AARC Book Group on Sunday, February 14, for our annual discussion led by Rav Gavrielle Pescador. This year, we’ll explore The Sabbath World by Judith Shulevitz, a thought-provoking examination of Shabbat through history, culture, philosophy, and personal experience.
The gathering begins at 12:20 p.m. at the home of Greg Saltzman and Audrey, with one of Audrey’s delicious lunches. Rav Gavrielle will lead the book discussion beginning at 1 p.m., when participants can also join by Zoom.
Greg suggested this year’s selection, and Rav Gavrielle enthusiastically agreed. She had heard Shulevitz interviewed by Ezra Klein several years ago and was intrigued by her exploration of Shabbat practice.
“I’m particularly interested in helping people in our community cultivate a meaningful Shabbat practice, in whatever form that might take,” Rav Gavrielle explains.
For Rav Gavrielle, one of the book’s most compelling themes is the communal dimension of Shabbat.
“Shabbat is not simply about individual rest or spiritual renewal. It’s also about creating a shared experience of sacred time.”
The book explores how Shabbat challenges our reliance on technology and our impulse to overwork. Slowing down together can create opportunities for connection, compassion, and community.
Rav Gavrielle is especially interested in discussing how these ideas might apply to AARC:
“In a Reconstructionist community, where people approach Jewish practice in different ways, how might we cultivate a Shabbat culture that is both meaningful and welcoming, without being prescriptive? How might we support one another in creating sacred time?”
She also appreciates that Shulevitz acknowledges the challenges and ambivalence that can accompany Shabbat observance rather than romanticizing the tradition. Whether Shabbat is already central to your life or you’re curious about exploring new possibilities, this promises to be a meaningful conversation.
Please join us! RSVP to Greg at gsaltzman@albion.edu
Sunday, February 14, 2027
12:20 p.m. — Lunch at Greg and Audrey’s home
1 p.m. — Book discussion led by Rav Gavrielle, in person and on Zoom
Book: The Sabbath World by Judith Shulevitz
photo: AARC book group with Rav Gav in March 2026, discussing God is Here by Toba Spitzer
