A VISITOR'S GUIDE TO OUR SERVICES
Sign up for limited in person services
As we start to return to in person services, we have limited capacity seating. Please click HERE to sign up for Friday night or Saturday morning services. *Please be aware that this link changes every Sunday* Social distancing measures will be implemented
We look forward to welcoming you to services at Congregation B’nai Israel! Members of our Board of Trustees as well as members of our Membership and Welcoming Committee traditionally serve as greeters during Shabbat and holiday services. Our ushers will be pleased to meet you and make sure you feel comfortable at B’nai Israel.
We are affiliated with United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. Our services are egalitarian with men and women participating together in ritual life and prayer.
All men are required to wear a yarmulke (available in the lobby) during services and women may choose to wear a yarmulke or lace head covering. Many adults also wear a tallis, a prayer shawl.
Most of the service is conducted in Hebrew. We use the Sim Shalom prayer book which includes Hebrew and English translations. Alternative prayer books, which include transliteration as well as additional readings, are also available.
We hope you will feel comfortable in the services, even if you are not familiar with the Hebrew prayers or tunes. We ask that you rise when the congregation rises. You should also feel comfortable to hum along even if you do not know the words. There is usually a greeter available when you enter the sanctuary – please let the greeter know if you would like to be paired with someone who would be willing to guide you through the service. The greeter will do his/her best to be of assistance.Please also note that we offer alternative services.