Feeling at Home in Shabbat Morning Services
Saturday, August 1 @ 9:30 am - 10:30 am
A welcoming introduction to Shabbat services
Saturdays • 9:30–10:30 a.m.
August 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29
Samuelson-Saiger Sanctuary
Why does the Shabbat service last as long as it does?
Why do we pray in Hebrew?
When do we stand, sit, bow, or bend our knees?
How can Shabbat services become more meaningful for me?
If you’ve ever wondered about any of these questions (or have a few of your own!), join Rabbi Carol Harris-Shapiro for a welcoming five-week exploration of the Shabbat morning service.
Each session includes a little singing, a little learning, a little nosh, and a lot of conversation. Together we’ll explore how the Shabbat service developed, what gives it meaning, and how it can become a richer spiritual experience. Along the way, you’ll get to know others who are asking many of the same questions.
Each session is self-contained, so come to one or come to all. The class ends in time to join the congregation for the Torah service, hear Rabbi Ariel’s weekly d’var Torah, and stay afterward for our community Kiddush lunch. With the High Holidays just around the corner, it’s also a wonderful way to become more comfortable with Jewish worship before the holidays arrive.
Rabbi Carol Harris-Shapiro, an Ohavi Zedek member who spends summers in Vermont with her husband Jon, is a retired rabbi, author, educator, and former professor of Contemporary Jewish Studies at Gratz College. She brings decades of experience helping people explore Jewish life and worship.
No prior knowledge is needed—just curiosity. This program is offered at no cost; optional donations are appreciated.
