Perhaps you are  familiar with Jewish practice elsewhere, but new to Reform Judaism, or perhaps your visit will be your first time in a synagogue. This  aims to offer a few explanations about what to expect at a Shabbat morning service at HRS and to help you feel comfortable whilst you are with us.

Members of our Welcome Committee at their desk in the foyer will be pleased to answer any questions and to direct you into the synagogue. Please take a copy of the Siddur (prayer book) as you come in. Prayers are written in both Hebrew and English.   If you have not seen a Hebrew/English book before, please note that it follows the Hebrew direction of writing – i.e. from right to left, so you will need to begin at the ‘back’. Men are requested to wear a Kippah [skull cap] and if Jewish, a tallit [prayer shawl]. If you do not have your own, both are available from the Welcome Desk.

The Movement for Reform Judaism is an egalitarian movement, so men and women are able to sit together and take part in all aspects of the service equally therefore you are welcome to sit wherever you wish in the synagogue.   During the Torah service the Sefer Torah (Scroll) is taken from the Ark and taken in procession around the congregation. Some congregants will bow to the Sefer Torah or touch it with their Tallit or Siddur to show respect as it goes around the room. It is customary to face the Sefer Torah as it processes around the synagogue.

The Rabbi will give his sermon, usually of contemporary interest. If there is a Bar/Bat Mitzvah he will also address that young person directly, as he/she takes on the responsibility of becoming an adult member of the Jewish community.

Once the service is over, we move into the communal hall. Although the tables are laid, please do not eat of drink anything until the Rabbi makes kiddush [blessings over wine and bread].  We hope you will enjoy talking with members of the congregation, friends and family in this very sociable conclusion to the Shabbat morning service. 

Please refer to our Protocol page for further information.