Celebrate Shabbat on the Water: Community Gatherings in the Laurentians

This summer, Jewish families in the Laurentians are embracing a unique way to welcome Shabbat. Near Saint-Agathe, a popular area north of Montreal, gatherings of boaters are tying up in flotillas to celebrate the Sabbath on the water. These events, known as “Shabbat on the Lake,” have become a vibrant community ritual, blending spirituality with the natural beauty of the lakes.

Community Spirit on the Water

On Friday afternoons, the sounds of clapping, singing, and lively Jewish music fill the air as participants motor out to Lake Manitou. The gatherings consist of two separate pre-Shabbat celebrations organized by different leaders, each offering a unique flavour of observance. One of the organizers, Howard Stotland, has seen attendance soar from a handful of participants in 2021 to over 150 people across 15 boats this summer. He describes the experience as uplifting and a source of resilience for the community.

Stotland, who initiated the gatherings during the pandemic, recalls his motivation: “I can’t live without that. I gotta be able to find a way to do it.” His events feature a mix of Jewish music, prayers, and the traditional blessing over challah, which participants bring for a potluck-style meal. Guests often include notable figures, such as Israel’s outgoing Consul General, adding to the sense of community.

Two Distinct Celebrations

While Stotland’s “Shabbat on the Lake” has gained popularity, it is not the only nautical gathering in the region. Rabbi Emanuel Carlebach, from the Congregation House of Israel in Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts, hosts his own version known as “Pre-Shabb’o’at on a Lake Near You.” This program, which began after the pandemic, involves traveling to various lakes each week for communal prayers and the distribution of challah.

Carlebach emphasizes the importance of community and unity through these gatherings, stating, “Shabbat has kept us so special, the same way we have kept Shabbat so special.” He notes that the events can draw over 200 participants across multiple boats, highlighting the growing interest in these unique celebrations.

Both programs feature distinct characteristics and practices, yet they share a common goal of fostering connection among Jewish families. Participants appreciate the spiritual atmosphere, which often includes lively music and heartfelt prayers, while also enjoying the scenic backdrop of the lakes.

As the summer progresses, the trend of celebrating Shabbat on the water continues to thrive, attracting not only Jewish families but also those from diverse backgrounds who wish to partake in the festivities. Stotland’s gatherings are primarily promoted through word of mouth, reflecting a grassroots community effort to connect and celebrate.

These gatherings provide a welcomed opportunity for families to bond and share in their traditions while enjoying the beauty of nature. As Stotland reflects on the impact of these events, he notes, “It’s so meaningful for me now,” emphasizing the personal fulfillment he derives from bringing people together.

Both Stotland and Carlebach encourage other communities to consider similar initiatives, fostering a sense of belonging and celebration among Jewish families across Canada. As the Laurentians continue to host these innovative Shabbat gatherings, they stand as a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Jewish community in adapting traditions to modern life.