Worship

Temple Beth-El is a member of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism and its ritual practices reflect the more recent developments of the Conservative Movement. Our synagogue is egalitarian, involving women in all aspects of its religious life. At the same time, the synagogue ritual reflects a respect for tradition in the nature of the tefilot (services). There is a balance of Hebrew and English, silent prayer and congregational participation. Music is an important and uplifting part of the tefilot. We use Siddur Sim Shalom Friday evenings, Saturday mornings and holidays. Mahzor Lev Shalem was introduced for 2012 (5773) High Holidays.

Kabbalat Shabbat tefilot include different formats. During the year, there are services in which children lead prayers and the rabbi reads stories.  There may be occasional guest speakers.  The children are invited to join in Kiddush with a cup of grape juice. There are special programs such as the Tu B’Shevat Seder and frequent Erev Shabbat dinners. Once a month, members come early to relax and share a pre-Shabbat snack (“Pre-Neg”), spend time with friends and family before the Friday evening service.  We also offer an alternative Kol Shabbat Service, featuring music by "The Mensches of Richmond."  Check the calendar for the next Kol Shabbat.

Shabbat Morning features a sermon or discussion with Rabbi Knopf about the Torah portion. Post b’nai mitzvah and other adults are trained to be Ba’alei K’riyah – Torah readers – and participate in services by reading from the Torah. We are happy to welcome young families with their infants and toddlers to our tefilot. Older children are often invited to lead the conclusion of the Shabbat morning service. Worship services are des

igned to foster the love of God and the study of Torah, friendship and community among congregants and be welcoming to newcomers.

We have a regular children’s service – Tot Shabbat welcomes children ages six and younger which teaches basic prayers and Shabbat concepts. Come sing, dance, play and celebrate Shabbat with your young ones!

There is a “Balcony Playgroup” space adjacent to the sanctuary balcony, where families can come with their very young children and move between services and the play area as they wish.

Daily Minyan services are held in our chapel or, on Sundays, at the school. Click here for the Minyan schedule.