WHAT TO EXPECT

 

For those of you who have been to a traditional or Messianic synagogue before, there is much that will be familiar. For those who have not, here is what to expect:

 

• When you first enter the sanctuary, you will notice varying forms of dress; some may be wearing prayer shawls known as "tallits" and head coverings known as "kippahs". Some of our members do not wear these - it is up to the individual. You are welcome to wear these if you have them or borrow one of ours (available at the Welcome Table). However, there should be an understanding of the significance of these items. Nevertheless, the important thing is modesty in our dress so as not to distract or dishonor those present.

• Before service begins, please enter the sanctuary with respect for the Presence of The Almighty. Any conversation should not be loud and boisterous and should be kept to the back of the room or in the coffee room, as people will be praying and preparing themselves for service to begin. The service lasts about 2 hours. If you must leave early, please do so quietly and respectfully.

• You will be asked to silence your cellphones so that there is no distraction.

• The sound of the Shofar (ram's horn) signals that service has begun. Shouts of joyful praise can be heard in the sanctuary and everything begins with a welcome song and a time to greet each other with "Shabbat Shalom - Sabbath Peace". We truly are glad to see you!

• You might see and hear some familiar and some unfamiliar things during our Shabbat service. Some of the songs we sing can also be heard in most Christian churches. However, you will notice a more Hebraic flavor to them.

• We display the Torah Scroll during our service and you will notice that some people will touch it with the corner of their Tallit (prayer shawl), Bible or even their hand and then touch their lips. This is not "idol worship" as some might think. We are simply showing that we desire the Word of Yahweh to always be on our lips. If you are uncomfortable with this, you are not obligated to do it. This is a tradition and not a law.

• Although we do use some Hebrew in our service, we always provide an English translation. Also, the words are projected on the screen and are transliterated so that you can sound them out if you would like to try a little Hebrew. Don't worry... you won't be graded so, don't be shy!

• After the praise and worship, we enter a time of corporate prayer. All are invited to speak out their prayer concerns so that our community of believers may stand in agreement with the petitioner.

• As the Ruach HaKodesh (Holy Spirit) leads, certain members of our eldership will bring forth Scripture, a psalm or a word that Yahweh has brought to their spirit. Prayer is concluded with a song of thanksgiving.

• On the first Shabbat of each Hebrew month, we celebrate Messiah's Table (Communion). The only requirement to participate is a firm belief in Messiah Yeshua's saving death, resurrection, and His soon return.

• Finally, there is the blessing of the children. You are welcome to bring your children up to the Bimah to receive the blessing as well. Following the children's blessing, the announcements will be read.

• The service ends with the Aaronic Blessing (Numbers 6:22-27) pronounced over the congregation and dismissal to the singing of "Shabbat Shalom" (Sabbath Peace).

• There is a short break after which we gather for Oneg (fellowship meal) and often we will have a Midrash (study and discussion) based on what was read. All are invited to participate!  Afterward, you are welcome to stay and ask whatever questions you may have. We would love to get to know you a little better! We hope that your visit was enjoyable and that you would consider joining us again!