At JCOGS, oneg is a time following Friday evening services when we gather to offer blessings for the fruit of the vine and bread from the earth, and we take a moment to pause and celebrate the sweetness of community as we enter into Shabbat. It is a light-hearted gathering when refreshments or a meal are served.
For winter 2025, members of the community will take turns “hosting” an oneg by providing simple treats and refreshments for this celebration. Often the simcha is shared between friends.

Hosting an oneg is easy, here's what to do:

5:15-5:30 PM Oneg host arrives for set up, staff will be there for guidance

6:00 PM Shabbat services begin

7:15 PM Shabbat services end

8:00 PM Oneg comes to an end, it's clean up time

To Bring: Food: Simple cheese platters, appetizers, fruit, desserts, or small meals (soups, casseroles) for approximately 20-25 people. Homemade or the meal can be store bought. Catering options, including cleanup, can also be available, contact Olivia at olivia.easdale@jcogs.org for more information. 

Set Up: Food can be set up in serving dishes on the rectangular tables in the social hall prior to services. Disposable tableware and tablecloths will already be in place upon arrival with extras available in the kitchen. Water pitchers will be available in the fridge for placing on the rectangular tables. Place pre-made note cards by the food to list ingredients for those with allergies. 

Ritual: Ritual items including Challah and the Kiddish cup with grape juice will already be set up prior to services.

Food: Please ensure that all food complies with our JCOGS kitchen rules – dairy, eggs, and kosher fish are welcome. Please no: meat, chicken, pork, or shellfish. 

Closing: Clean up and close up instructions can be found in a white folder in the kitchen.

First time hosting and would love some help? There are members who will be willing to co-host or help guide you, let us know at olivia.easdale@jcogs.org.