Shabbat is sacred and joyful at Temple Emanu-El, and it is our chance to welcome guests. Each Friday evening, Rabbi Glickman leads a spiritual service; the temple members look forward to his intellectually stimulating sermons. Still, music is the centerpiece with a truly fantastic choir. We sing most of the prayers together, but there is always a piece or two that the choir sings with a beauty that transports us. The Friday evening service typically begins at 8:00, with numerous exceptions listed below.

The first Friday of each month brings our fabulous Family Service. This is a celebration of Shabbat featuring a full band and upbeat music. The children of the religious school lead many of the prayers, and the youngest children process with the Torah and lead the Shema on the bimah. Rabbi Glickman tells a delightful story each month that is as popular with the adults as it is with the children. There is a dinner at 6:00, and the service begins at 7:00.

Our Saturday morning services once a month are a temple favorite. Our volunteer choir leads everyone in singing, and Rabbi Glickman engages everyone in a Torah discussion following the reading. Each month a different member sponsors a luncheon for all attendees. It is the most wonderful way to spend Shabbat morning. The service and discussion begin at 10:30; the lunch is at noon.

We also have a gleeful Tot Shabbat once a month on Saturday mornings. We meet on the playground for play and fun, bagels and orange juice. Then we move inside for songs and movement, prayers and a story. The children love it! Tot Shabbat is open the entire community; simply contact Bonnie to receive the email invitations.

All of these activities are suspended in the summer as we move to our Summer Service schedule. This is the most social time of the year. We have a shorter and sweet service at 6:00, and then everyone goes out to dinner! Each week we announce a different restaurant. Though some prefer to go their own way, about half will go to the announced restaurant in a large group and continue the Shabbat celebration.

All Shabbat services are open to the public. Come and let us welcome you!