Shabbat

In the Torah, we are commanded to “Observe the Sabbath and keep it holy.” How we, as Jews, choose to observe that commandment is frequently debated. In the synagogue, Shabbat is an opportunity for our community to gather together and share in each other’s company.

On Friday night, at 6:00 PM, The Temple hosts a Kabbalat Shabbat service, literally meaning “Welcoming the Sabbath.” In the summer months, we precede this service with a special oneg gathering around light refreshments that begins at 5:30 PM. Throughout the year, we also welcome guest speakers to our Friday evening worship, and it is common to see The Temple hosting a congregational dinner following services.

Our Shabbat observance continues on Saturday mornings, beginning with a 9:00 AM Torah study session. Led by one of our clergy, we gather around the weekly Torah portion and dissect its meanings and lessons. The discussion and debates that ensue are often lively and always insightful.

After Torah study, there is a regular 10:30 AM Shabbat service. During this service, we read from the Torah, an honor often reserved for a bar or bat mitzvah student. Dozens of our young people rise to the bimah each year for this honor, products of our excellent religious school.

On those Shabbat mornings when we have a bar or bat mitzvah, we also host a smaller, more intimate worship in the Covenant Chapel. These services often involve lay leaders who deliver a d’var Torah or read the weekly portion. Learning is one of The Temple’s foundations, and this service is an excellent way to engage with Jewish liturgy and worship in a welcoming and non-intimidating environment.

Questions about Shabbat, our worship services, or our liturgy can be directed to one of our clergy. We also host a number of adult education classes that can help address any questions you might have on these subject.

To speak to one of our clergy, you may contact them directly. For information on our adult education, please contact Rabbi Steven Rau at 404.873.1731.