Our worship experience reflects the dynamic diversity of our congregation. It is vibrant, uplifting and engaging. The elegant Sanctuary, modeled after the first Mishkan (Tabernacle) in Jerusalem, embraces us with warmth and joy. Music and singing plays an integral role in our highly participatory services. Piano, guitar, organ and other instruments enhance the beauty and vitality.

Shabbat Services

The first Friday evening of every month is our Family service (held from 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm) offering something for everyone. We use a creative family-oriented prayerbook including English translations and Hebrew transliteration so everyone can participate. The Cantor accompanies some music with guitar. The Rabbis offer the opportunity for those celebrating birthdays during that month to receive a special blessing before the open Ark.

These Fridays we concurrently hold an Alternative Service in our Chapel. This service is informal and interactive. Our music is a cappella or accompanied by keyboard. We welcome all adults to share in this meaningful service.

We regularly use the Gates of Prayer (gender sensitive) for Friday evening services, which are held at 8 PM. Singing, learning and reflection are all central to our worship service. Alongside the liturgical prayers, the Rabbis and occasional guest speakers offer “Divrei Lev”, words from the heart to inspire, inform and educate. We offer a number of creative services throughout the year, often involving our Sisterhood, Youth Group, and Men’s Club.

Saturday morning Shabbat services are held at 10:30 am (except during July and August). The congregation often celebrates one or more B’nai Mitzvah during this service. Bar and Bat-Mitzvah students are called to the Torah as we welcome them as new adult members of our community.

The first and second Fridays in July and August we host a Kabbalat Shabbat service at 6 pm which combines Tot Shabbat and Family service into one. Refreshments and hors d’oeuvre follow the service.

High Holy Days

Our High Holy Days are observed with dignity and spirituality. We pray from The Gates of Repentance and our Adult Choir enhances our evening services. Second day Rosh Hashana is more intimate and there are opportunities for congregants to be involved in every aspect of our worship, including Torah and Haftarah readings.

Festivals

Our Simchat Torah celebration features a joyous Klezmer group as welcome the Torah scroll into our midst. We add new meaning and relevance to the Festivals of Sukkot, Passover and Shavuot. Hanukkah is a real happening at Temple Emanuel featuring a community dinner, the lighting of our giant Menorah and holiday songs led by our Temple choirs. Purim is a highlight of the Jewish calendar at Temple Emanuel. Our comic Shpiel and Purim Carnival involve members of all ages. The Megilla reading and service are fun and entertaining as we recount our glorious story.

As a member of the Union for Reform Judaism, Temple Emanuel is open, welcoming and accepting. We meet people where they are in their lives and grow with them. We are proud to come from different backgrounds and represent various levels of ritual observance. Our greatest strength is our diversity and our love of Judaism.

Celebrating First Grade Shabbat at Temple Emanuel.