A unique Shabbat tradition is thriving in Atlanta, thanks to passionate community members and the support of Federation. On Friday, January 31, over 172 hosts welcomed more than 2,000 family members, friends, and neighbors to celebrate Shabbat Across Atlanta, organized by OneTable.
Two hosts, Gabby Spatt and Valerie Chambers, transformed their homes into vibrant centers of Jewish engagement. Both credit Federation’s JGather program (formerly Gather Grants) and OneTable for providing the resources and support necessary to host these meaningful events.
For Gabby, Shabbat is about preserving Jewish traditions and building community. “Shabbat is a time to disconnect. It’s this time to relax, to do something that is good for our soul, to be with the people that we want to be with,” she shared. Shabbat is a tradition she and her husband, Mark, are passionate about passing on to their son. “It’s how we grew up, and it’s how we want our son to grow up.”
For Shabbat Across Atlanta, Gabby organized an Après Shabbat Mahjong-themed event, where guests arrived in ski attire and enjoyed warm beverages like hot chocolate and apple cider, along with warm cheeses and a gummy platter. With four Mahjong tables in play, the space featured snowflake balloons, ski goggles, and even a special outdoor Mahjong set donated for the occasion. When Gabby’s oven broke, a friend stepped in to bake a chocolate chip snow-dusted challah. “It was a special moment for me,” Gabby reflected, noting how the event embodied the community spirit she hopes to foster.
Driven by a passion for Jewish heritage, Gabby launched Mahji Mazels, a project raising awareness of Mahjong’s Jewish roots. And she didn’t stop there. Since October 2023, she and her co-founder have taught nearly 1,100 people how to play through Let’s Rack and Roll Mahjong. She also launched the Mazel card, supported by Federation, to further spread this knowledge. Federation’s JGather program has encouraged her to think bigger, creatively engaging guests at her Shabbat dinners and Mahjong tables.
Valerie Chambers also emphasized the importance of Shabbat. While she has long hosted Shabbat meals for Kennesaw State University alumni, Federation’s support has made it easier for her to provide a welcoming space for young professionals new to their careers and Jewish journeys. “The Gather Grant helps take the pressure off,” she said. “It allows me to focus on creating a beautiful, meaningful experience without the stress of funding everything myself.”
Valerie’s Shabbat dinners are known for home-cooked meals and warm hospitality. “I love cooking, and it’s something that brings me joy,” she said. “But more than just the food, it’s about creating a space where people can connect with each other and with Jewish traditions.” Her gatherings have also become a place for old friends to reconnect. One guest, Kelly, a childhood friend of Valerie’s, had grown up with a Jewish father but had never fully embraced Jewish practices. After attending the Shabbat dinner, she shared that she was learning more than ever before. “It’s really special to me to offer that opportunity for someone to experience Jewish community in a new way,” Valerie said.
A highlight of Valerie’s evening was the use of Oneg cards, provided by Federation, which feature thought-provoking questions about the weekly Parsha. “These cards spark conversation and allow everyone to engage in a deeper way,” she explained. “It’s a wonderful way to bring Judaism into our homes and invite others to learn and connect.”
Beyond the dinner table, Valerie’s gatherings have sparked friendships, strengthened bonds, and even led to love connections. Admitting how much she enjoys playing matchmaker, she laughed, “It’s the most Jewish thing I could do.”
Gabby and Valerie’s Shabbat gatherings highlight the power of community and the importance of fostering connections within Jewish Atlanta. With the support of Federation and OneTable, these gatherings foster deep connections, ensuring that the warmth of Shabbat extends far beyond a single meal.
