"Prayer is to the soul what food is to the body." ~ Rabbi Yehuda Halevi
Shabbat Services at Beth Shalom are warm and inviting. We welcome the participation of our congregants, whether it be a baby's cry, a child's utterance, or people singing, praying and laughing. Music is an integral part of our services, and we are fortunate to have many musicians and singers who share their talents with us. This blend of warmth, inclusivity, prayer, and musical expression creates a meaningful and engaging environment for worship and community bonding.
During our services, Hebrew and English are combined and balanced. Our prayer book contains full transliterations of all prayers and songs, so that if you do not read Hebrew, you may comfortably and easily join in.
We have a variety of Shabbat Services, and each service is open to all. Shabbat Services are also provided on Zoom, so that those who cannot attend in person can still gather with us in prayer and song.
Shabbat Evening Service: Fridays at 7:30 p.m. (except the first Friday)
Our Shabbat Evening Services bridge tradition with modern ways of worship and community involvement. Offering a blend of traditional and contemporary prayers, songs, and music, our services also include the reading of the Torah and a commentary from Rabbi Edery. Our congregants participate both from their seats and alongside our rabbi.
Family Shabbat Service: First Friday of the Month at 6:30 p.m.
Family Shabbat is geared toward families with young children, but adults also find it meaningful and joyful. With a special Siddur, children enjoy the service, sing, and gather at the Bimah. Our children learn to be comfortable at our service and feel at home in our synagogue. Often, a Religious School class participates.
Tot Shabbat
Tot Shabbat is ideal for families with children under six years of age, although many times older siblings and children attend because of its interactive nature. In a joyous and engaging atmosphere, children light Shabbat candles, say prayers, sing songs, dance with plush Torahs, hear a story, and make a Shabbat themed craft! Check our calendar for dates.
Saturday Morning Shabbat Service
Like our Friday Shabbat Services, congregants experience a blend of contemporary and traditional prayers and music with a Torah reading and commentary. These services include celebrations of our B'nei Mitzvahs, who lead much of the service. The teen reads from Torah and Haftarah, and delivers the D'var Torah. Check our calendar for dates.
Music
Music is an important part of Beth Shalom life and our Shabbat Services, and we encourage all to participate in the singing that occurs at services and other events. We have several different musical ensembles, a choir, and many musicians and singers who join through the weeks in helping to enrich our services. The choir welcomes children, teens, and adults of all musical abilities and talents, as we create connections and build community through joyful music. You do not need to try out - we have a place for you if you wish!
Special Observances and Holiday Shabbats
Throughout the year, we have Shabbat services that celebrate a specific holiday or have an important theme. These services include:
Simchat Torah and Kindergarten Consecration
Veterans Shabbat
Interfaith Shabbat of Gratitude
Hanukkah Shabbat
MLK Shabbat
Shabbat Shira
Scout Shabbat
Shabbat with Chocolate & Wine Oneg
Purim Shabbat
Pride Shabbat
Yom Hashoah
Israeli Independence Shabbat
Graduation & Teacher Appreciation Shabbat
Below is a video from our most recent MLK Shabbat. Each year, we invite guests from a local church to share their songs and prayers, furthering the bonds of unity and supporting social justice within our local community.