More than 250 members of the South Palm Beach County community gathered for the 4th Annual Keshet Community Pride Shabbat, a joyful evening celebrating LGBTQ+ Jews, their families, and allies while strengthening connections across Jewish life.

Supported through a grant from the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County, the event welcomed 257 participants, including 94 first-time attendees. Offered free of charge to ensure accessibility, Pride Shabbat brought together individuals and families from across the community for an evening of worship, learning, and connection.

The program featured partner organization tabling, a youth program, a participatory Pride Shabbat service led by clergy and community members, and a communal oneg that encouraged conversation and relationship-building.

Now in its fourth year, Pride Shabbat continues to create meaningful opportunities for LGBTQ+ Jews to celebrate their identities, deepen their connection to Jewish life, and build lasting relationships within the community.

As a Pride Shabbat participant, Stephanie M. has experienced the program’s impact firsthand. “Over the past four years, Pride Shabbat has become a gathering place where friendships are formed, families find belonging, and individuals discover that their full identity is celebrated,” she said. 

“It has strengthened the fabric of our Jewish community by making it more reflective of the beautiful diversity within it. Every year, people leave feeling more connected to their faith, to each other, and to themselves.”

Organizers reported continued growth in first-time attendees, reflecting the increasing demand for inclusive Jewish spaces where individuals and families can connect, celebrate, and engage in Jewish life. Looking ahead, Keshet and its partners hope to expand capacity for the 5th Annual Community Pride Shabbat, increase leadership opportunities and community visibility, and create stronger pathways for participants to remain involved throughout the year.

To learn more about how Federation is making an impact across our community and around the world, visit JewishBoca.org/ourimpact.