Take Advantage of Sfiras haOmer with the SAI Sefira Transformation Program

by Adina Lapine

It’s that time of year again. Pesach is upon us with all of its multifaceted preparations. We painstakingly eradicate all forms of chametz, both material and spiritual, while simultaneously gathering the necessities for the holiday. Then comes the two sedarim, chol hamoed with all of its trips and constant cooking, and the second days. Now we can kick back and relax until Shavuos, right?

Not exactly. You see, in the midst of all of the matzah, wine, and new recipes there is a period of time called Sfiras haOmer during which we spiritually prepare for Shavuos. Just like our ancestors counted down the days after leaving Egypt until they could receive the Torah, we are meant to count each day with a special blessing until we reach Shavuos. But how can we prepare for receiving the Torah by mumbling a few words every night for seven weeks?

The answer comes in the form of SAI: Sfira Transformation. SAI (aka Systematic Avodah Initiative) was created by the directors of Living Chassidus, Michal and Sharon Weiss, to help young women take advantage of the growth potential of the Yiddishe and Chassidishe yomim tovim. The program utilizes Rabbi Simon Jacobson’s book, The Counting of the Omer alongside bi-weekly farbrengens with inspiring speakers. The program has featured Goldie Plotkin, Shaindy Jacobson, Rochie Pinson, Dovid Zaklikowski and others in the past. Each participant in the program is provided with a leather journal and pen to complete the thought-provoking exercises. As participants complete their daily readings and weekly journal entries, they earn prizes. Prizes in the past have included jewelry, gift cards, Bluetooth speakers, lots of sefarim and more.

The SAI Sfira Transformation program is now approaching its third year. Living Chassidus has a great lineup of farbrengens and prizes planned.

The kickoff is set for this Sunday night, April 10th, at 7:00 PM in the center of Crown Heights (The program does not start until the first night of sefira, so you can join even if you miss the kickoff). Out-of-town participants can join by Zoom. Recordings are posted on YouTube and podcasting platforms.

Join SAI to make your Sefiras haOmer more meaningful.

https://livingchassidus.org/sai/

SAI Sfira Playlist: