From South Africa to Israel: Celebrities Join the Global Shabbat Movement

Millions of people around the world have already announced their participation in the Shabbat Project, "Keeping It Together," a movement launched by Chief Rabbi Dr. Warren Goldstein of Johannesburg, South Africa, calling on Jews everywhere to keep one Shabbat together.

What began in South African cities has grown into an international phenomenon with more than 50,000 people joining the initiative. The project even caught the attention of major celebrities.  Paula Abdul, of American Idol fame, surprised organizers when she announced her support.

Now, just days before the anticipated Shabbat arrives in Israel, Israeli celebrities are also stepping up. On Monday evening, actor Oshri Cohen and singer Maya Buskila declared that they, too, will participate.

“This Project Touched Me” 
“I’m not a religious person,” Cohen said, “but this coming Shabbat there’s a global project asking every Jew in the world to keep Shabbat, an act of unity that gives us collective strength. A little less WhatsApp, a little less Facebook, a little less ‘man and his device,’ and a little more ‘man and his family and friends.’ That really touched me. It feels good to take part in something shared by people around the world and even better to take a break from all the noise.”

“It’s Blessed Energy” 
“I think there’s something powerful about keeping Shabbat, whether you're religious or not,” said Buskila, who comes from a traditional background but does not identify as religious. “There’s real energy in it. That sense of calm you get from two days of rest—rest for your soul, your spirit, and especially your body—is transformative.

“When Friday comes, I get time with my family and my baby. It creates a feeling of unity that goes far beyond ‘doing nothing.’ And most importantly, it’s rest, true rest, so you can recharge for a new week with new energy. This project is a blessing.”

As the Shabbat Project approaches, more voices, both famous and not, are joining in, each recognizing the gift of one unified day of peace, presence, and purpose.