Lakefront Shabbat Service with Rabbi Rachel Weiss and Cantor Howard Friedland, with Musical Accompanist Jason Osborn and Guest D’var by Jackie Kaplan-Perkins, with Special Blessing for Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky

All summer long, JRC moves our sanctuary to the Evanston lakefront, with outdoor services surrounded by nature and the beauty of Lake Michigan. This spiritually uplifting (and child and dog-friendly) service feels a bit like summer camp, a bit like Ravinia, and entirely like JRC. Bring your family and friends. Lakefront Shabbat is a wonderful opportunity to learn about JRC. Services will be livestreamed on the JRC Facebook Page for those preferring to join us virtually. Click here to access our digital Lakefront Shabbat Siddur.

Tonight’s service will be led by Rabbi Rachel Weiss and Cantor Howard Friedland, with musical accompanist Jason Osborn and guest dvar by Jackie Kaplan-Perkins, with a blessing for Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky.

Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (IL-9) has been a public servant since 1990, serving as JRC’s Congressional Representative for 14 terms since 1998.  This summer, she announced her retirement at the end of this term.  Jan has been a steadfast voice for democracy and justice in Washington and Evanston; join us as we share a blessing for her in her final year of service and celebrate her leadership in our community.

JRC member Jackie Kaplan-Perkins served on the staff to elect Congresswoman Schakowsky to her first term in Congress in 1996, and over the past 3 decades has been on of the City of Chicago’s most dynamic and influential leaders.  Jackie has devoted her career to lifting voices for equity and diversity, and using her Jewish and queer identities motivates community connections and change.  She is a champion storyteller and advocate for justice, bringing these voices to words of Torah and blessings for Jan this Shabbat.

6:00 pm | Bring Your Own Picnic
7:00 pm | Service

We meet Fridays at Elliot Park with a few exceptions. Check our our evolving Lakefront Shabbat calendar. We’ll be adding details about musical accompanists and member divrei Torah throughout the summer.

In the case of inclement weather, check this calendar listing after 3:30pm on the day of Lakefront Shabbat for updated information.