Synagogue Etiquette

We desire that all have a wonderful and positive worship experience at Lev HaShem.  For some, this may be the first time they have been in a synagogue service.  If this is you, don't overly concern yourself.  Remember, Yeshua's context was the synagogue and He was never in a church either.   G-d is ever-present throughout the Body of Believers, whether it be in a synagogue or in a church.  This section is designed to assist in understanding the nuances of synagogue etiquette and worship.  All questions are welcome as that we wish to bless everyone as much as possible during their time with us. 

Kippot (head coverings) 

Head Covering for Men: It is always appropriate for all men and boys, visitors and members alike, to cover their heads when in the synagogue.  It is also a Biblical observance where the example comes from the attire of the Priesthood.  This is found in Sh'mot (Exodus) chapter 29 and Vayikra (Leviticus) 8:1-9.  The word "kippah" comes from the Hebrew word "kippur" which means "covering".   It is a symbol of reverence and respect for G-d, for prayer, for the study of Scripture and for the House of G-d.  At Lev HaShem, like in observant synagogues, men wear a kippah (singular) kippot (plural).   It is a reminder that we are under G-d's covering and that atonement for sin is provided through Yeshua's perfect sacrifice.  In addition, we wear kippot to maintain connection with our Jewish community throughout the world. Kippot are available for use in the back of the sanctuary.  They should be returned upon leaving the synagogue.

Head Covering for Women: The Biblical base for women wearing a head cover is even stronger in the New Covenant (1 Corinthians 11:1-16). By covering her head, a woman reflects her submission to G-d's design of authority over her. A woman's head covering is an outward symbol of G-d's design of her creation and role. At Lev HaShem one will see women wearing scarves and kippot especially designed and made for women.  Some women cover their heads throughout the entire service, others when praying, or participating in blessings.  It is always proper to cover one's head during the Sh'ma and when the Aron (Ark) is open and the Torah is processed.   Lace coverings are available for use in the back of the sanctuary.  They should be returned upon leaving the synagogue.

Tallit (Prayer Shawl)

The tallit (singular) tallitot (plural) with the fringes (tzit-tzit) is worn by men at daily prayers, during Saturday morning services, or on Yom Kippur.  The commandment for wearing tallitot is found in Numbers 15:37-41.  Along with the mitzvot (commandments) found in the First Covenant, there are more than 1,000 mitzvot found in the New Covenant.  The numerical value of the fringes totals to the 613 mitzvot  found in the Torah.  Each of the tzit-tzit has five knots which "5" corresponds to the Hebrew word "chen" meaning (grace).  The commandment of wearing tallitot is directed to the sons of Yisrael.  We encourage men that are not Jewish to also wear a tallit as long as they have an understanding and commitment to what Messianic Judaism and Lev HaShem are about.  A man may wear a kippah without wearing a tallit.  When donning a tallit, a man should also wear a kippah.  There are many other Biblical references to the tallit which includes Yeshua's observance to this practice.  It is acceptable for women to wear tallitot that are specifically designed and made for women. D'Varim (Deuteronomy) 22:5.

There are tallitot available for use in the back of the sanctuary, and we ask that they be worn  respectfully.   They should be folded and returned upon leaving the sanctuary.  Tallitot should never be worn into the restrooms.

Treating Scriptures Respectfully

At Lev HaShem love and respect for G-d's Word is most important.  Scriptures should not be placed on the floor, nor is it appropriate to take them into the restrooms.  The Complete Jewish Bible translation is only one of a few available within Messianic Judaism.  Therefore it is mainly used in our services.  Jewish tradition teaches that if Scriptures are accidentally dropped, as with tallitot or kippot we pick them up and "kiss" them.  This is a symbol of the sanctification of holy articles and shows our love and regard. Scriptures are available just inside the sanctuary door, to the left, as one enters.  They should be returned at the conclusion of the service.

Entering/Exiting During the Service

If one enters after the service has begun or must leave during, if possible we should wait for an appropriate time.  There are other times when sensitivity is special; like when a blessing is being said, a prayer uttered, the recitation of the Sh'ma, during the procession of the Torah, or the sounding of the Shofar.  We should wait for a transitional time so that it will not cause a distraction for others.  We should also not walk out or come into the service while an invitation is being given.  Emergencies are understandable.  We want full attention to be given to HaShem and to the service.

Talking/Cell Phone Use

We desire everyone to have a positive and worshipful experience at Lev HaShem.  For that reason, we ask that congregational talking be kept to a minimum and that cell phones be put on silent or vibrate during services.  If someone needs to take a call, they should step completely outside the Sanctuary.  We should also refrain from texting during services!  

Standing/Sitting, Etc.

There are times when we stand during different parts of our service.  When we chant or say blessings, recite the Sh'ma and process the Torah, it is appropriate to stand. We also generally stand during the praise and worship that includes singing and dancing. If someone is not able to stand for long periods, they are welcome to sit and worship Him from that posture.  Our attitude is what is most important, not the physical posture of worship.

Dance

Worship in Israeli and Messianic Jewish dance is one of the most important parts of our services.  It is a unique expression of worship and praise in our Kehilah.  We have a dance team that dances during the service.  When "congregational dance" is encouraged, we invite all to join in.  Congregational dances are usually easy and comfortable even for first-timers.  During specially choreographed dances we ask that, for the benefit and safety of all, new persons refrain from joining in a dance they do not know.  All are welcome to sign up for Beginner's Dance sessions which are held after the service and the oneg.