Masorti Olami has launched a new initiative to strengthen weekly Shabbat programming at Hadassah Primary School in Uganda. Developed through Masorti Olami's deep and growing relationship with the Abayudaya communities, the project responds directly to the school's evolving needs, the project is providing the resources needed for approximately 150 boarding students from all across Uganda to celebrate the traditions of Shabbat together by baking challah, learning its laws and customs, and reciting Kiddush and Hamotzi together each Friday night and Shabbat day, ensuring that Shabbat is experienced not only as something students learn about, but as something they actively live.

Founded by the Abayudaya Jewish community, Hadassah Primary School has become a model of bridge-building in the Ugandan community, where more than 250 Jewish, Christian, and Muslim students study Uganda's national curriculum alongside Jewish values, heritage, and leadership. Within that environment, Shabbat offers an opportunity to strengthen identity, responsibility, and community through shared experience.

The impact of the initiative was evident from the very first Shabbat celebration. Reflecting on the experience, Hadassah Primary School Director Simcha Katalima shared:

"The children were so excited to work together while preparing the challah. Each child took responsibility for a different step, and it was beautiful to see their teamwork and enthusiasm. They then led the prayers themselves with such confidence and joy. Sharing challah with children, teachers, and caregivers of different faiths has brought people together in a spirit of friendship, respect, and community, reminding us that kindness and sharing can touch every heart, regardless of religion."

Each week, students bake challah, prepare the tables, lead prayers, practice Torah reading, and take responsibility for different parts of the service. These moments teach far more than Jewish ritual. They nurture confidence, leadership, teamwork, and a sense of belonging, while helping the next generation develop a lasting connection to Jewish tradition.

This project reflects Masorti Olami's commitment to listening to communities, responding to their needs, and investing in practical, meaningful initiatives that strengthen Jewish life. By making it possible for students to celebrate Shabbat together every week, it transforms everyday moments into opportunities for learning, belonging, and community building.

More than supporting weekly celebrations, this investment helps create Jewish experiences that students will carry with them long after they leave the classroom. It is a reminder that thoughtful, community-driven support can have an enduring impact on the next generation.

Helping communities thrive often begins by responding to practical local needs, just as this project does at Hadassah Primary School. As the Abayudaya communities continue to build vibrant Jewish life in Uganda and Kenya, support from across the global Masorti/Conservative movement helps make initiatives like this possible. To learn more about the Abayudaya communities and support this ongoing work, we invite you to visit masortiolami.org/support-abayudaya-communities.