Our Shabbat and Holiday Services are filled with holiness, spirit, warmth, and singing.
We are fully egalitarian – men and women, boys and girls share in the religious practices of our faith, including chanting Torah and Haftarah, leading prayers, and offering Divrei Torah.
Tikvat Israel offers an array of experiences for observing Shabbat that appeal to a wide array of interests and needs. We offer a weekly Kabbalat Shabbat (Friday evening) service and weekly Shabbat morning services. In addition, the lineup at TI includes the following:
Kabbalat Shabbat with Instruments, led by Cantor Helzner on guitar, accompanied by local instrumentalists, including our own Marsha Bronstein on piano is held monthly (Friday evening). These events are often augmented by a appetizer or dessert reception before or after the service, or a congregational dinner (reservations in advance required). The mood is elevating and spirited, and have been very popular with members and guests.
Shabbat morning services start at 10:00 am followed by a Kiddush in our Social Hall. We follow the triennial cycle of Torah readings, and our readers are lay members of the congregation. We encourage participation, and anyone who wants to learn to chant Torah (leyn) or lead part of the service is encouraged to contact the rabbi or the cantor to find a tutor or class. This service runs on special scheduled dates.
We use the Lev Shalem siddur, and follow the practices of Conservative Judaism. We encourage full participation, and we ask that our congregants and visitors show respect to our traditions while in the synagogue:
We welcome children to our services. It’s a mitzvah to raise children to be comfortable in shul, and we make our Shabbat experiences as kid-friendly as possible. We do not expect that children will act like adults, they will act their age. Their presence and normal sounds do not disturb us. However, if a child is loud or cries, a brief break with a parent outside the Sanctuary may do wonders. There is an area in the back of the Sanctuary where children are welcome to play quietly with parental supervision.
Shabbat Programming for Youth provides an opportunity for Jewish youth to learn, participate and lead religious services.
Don’t miss out! Check out the Tikvat Israel Calendar for Shabbat programming dates and times!
Does the thought of having your K-2nd grade child daven, sing, and interact in a supercharged morning Shabbat service appeal to you? Join us for a meaningful, spiritual and fun morning.
Shabbat morning service for students in 3rd through 6th grade will be conducted by the students themselves with the help of teenagers and and an adult adviser.
Under the direction of Elliot Cowan, students in grades four and up learn Torah trope with the goal of becoming proficient in reading Torah. The club meets every second and fourth Shabbat morning of the month. Students are encouraged to attend Torah Service (beginning at approximately 10:30am) and then after the dressing of the Torah, the class will will meet in the Social Hall. Contact Elliot for more information. Follow this link to practice your trope skills, with Elliot’s help!
Children are invited to participate in Drama on Shabbat on selected dates throughout the year. Directed by congregant Jeff Smith children rehearse and perform after Shabbat services in the social hall. The presentation, complete with costumes and props, is offered before Kiddush.
Note: Children over 6 years old and adults are asked to arrive at 10:00 am. Children under 6 are asked to arrive at 11:00 am.
