What to Expect
Info for Visitors
If you are planning to visit Temple Beth Israel, please contact the office ahead of time so that we know to expect you. Due to increased security concerns for Jewish institutions, we must keep our doors locked and potentially turn away unknown persons. WORSHIP
A typical service at Temple Beth Israel is a welcoming experience. Our erev Shabbat (Friday night) services begin at 7:30PM with beautiful niggunim (melodies) sung by our cantoral soloist, Dorothy Liller and accompanied by one of our pianists. Rabbi Audrey leads the congregation in prayer and is always sure to give a poignant and meaningful sermon. Services are followed by an oneg (light refreshments) sponsored by one of our congregational families. Our onegs are the perfect time to get to know our Temple family better!
COMMUNITY
At least once a month we have a congregational dinner preceding erev Shabbat services open to all families of the Temple as well as to guests. Dinners will be announced via email, Facebook and will be listed on our events page on this website. Typically our dinners begin an hour or so before the service is scheduled to begin.
SIDDUR
We use the Mishkan T’filah Shabbat siddur for weekly services and the Gates of Repentance machzor for the High Holidays. Please contact the Temple office to order your copy of the Mishkan T’filah siddur or to make a donation for a prayerbook for the congregation.
MINHAG (CUSTOMS & TRADITIONS)
While it is our custom for men to wear a kippah (skullcap) while inside the Temple, we do not require it. Women are encouraged to wear a kippah during services if they feel comfortable doing so.
Both men and women are welcome to don a tallit (prayer shawl) during morning services.
Whenever we say HaMotzi, everyone touches someone who touches someone who touches someone else who is helping to hold the challah board. This links us to everyone in our community!
The first erev Shabbat of each (secular) month is set aside as a special “Birthday Shabbat” where all those who have a birthday in the month receive a special blessing from Rabbi Audrey