On a winter evening that invited warmth, patience, and intention, Chazaq and Beth Gavriel came together to host a thoughtfully curated ladies event titled “The Sourdough of a Lifetime.” What unfolded was far more than a baking demonstration—it was an experience rooted in nourishment of both body and soul.
Held at Beth Gavriel in Forest Hills, the program drew women from across the community for a hands-on, beautifully paced evening centered around the timeless art of sourdough. From the moment guests entered, the room carried a sense of calm focus—wooden tools, flour-dusted visuals, and the unmistakable aroma of bread in the making set the tone.
The evening opened with heartfelt remarks from Rebbetzin Esther Zino, who framed the night with depth and meaning. In her words, sourdough became a metaphor for life itself—something that requires care, patience, consistency, and trust in the process. She spoke about growth that doesn’t happen instantly, about nurturing what we don’t always see, and about the quiet power of showing up day after day. Her reflections resonated deeply, grounding the evening in purpose before a single ingredient was mixed.
Following the opening, Sarah Marcus led an engaging and accessible sourdough demonstration that struck the perfect balance between technical clarity and encouraging warmth. With confidence and ease, she guided participants through every stage of the process—from understanding and maintaining a starter, to mixing, folding, bulk fermentation, and shaping techniques that lead to a beautiful rise.
What stood out was Sarah’s ability to demystify sourdough. Questions were welcomed, tips were shared generously, and no detail felt rushed. Attendees learned how to care for their starters long-term, how to troubleshoot common issues, and how to achieve the coveted crisp crust and airy crumb that make sourdough so beloved. Scoring techniques, baking guidance, and full recipe instruction rounded out the experience, empowering women to recreate the process at home with confidence.
All materials were thoughtfully provided, allowing participants to remain fully present and immersed. The atmosphere throughout the evening was collaborative and uplifting—women exchanging notes, sharing smiles, and bonding over a craft that is as ancient as it is relevant.
By the time the program concluded, it was clear that something meaningful had been created. Guests didn’t just leave with knowledge; they left inspired, equipped, and connected—to the process, to each other, and to the deeper symbolism behind it all.
Chazaq and Beth Gavriel once again demonstrated their commitment to programming that is enriching, practical, and spiritually resonant. “The Sourdough of a Lifetime” was a reminder that sometimes, the most powerful lessons come from slowing down, tending carefully, and trusting that with the right care, something beautiful will rise.
By Shabsie Saphirstein
The Sourdough Of A Lifetime: A Night Of Craft, Connection, And Care At Beth Gavriel
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