Kabbalat Shabbat Services

B’nai El offers a variety of Kabbalat Shabbat Services to welcome Shabbat on Friday night.

Our Kabbalat Shabbat Service is a contemporary, modern service using the new, gender neutral Gates of Prayer for Shabbat and Weekdays. It includes contemporary and classic melodies on guitar and piano, and our Director of Music leading us in singing. Generally we read Torah and have an opportunity for learning through a sermon, discussion or an “Ask the Rabbi” session.

Nashir Ladonai - Sing Unto God Musical Service is our chance to celebrate Shabbat in the spirit of song and joy. We sing our way through the service using contemporary melodies, varied instrumentations, and a creative service.

The first Friday of each month at 7:00 pm we hold an Intergenerational Service designed for individuals and families of all ages. Join Rabbi Plotkin in the main sanctuary as we sing songs, hear a story and give children an opportunity to lead parts of the service.

Tefilat Ruchaniyot - A Service of Spirituality is held in our Chapel.  This service is a chance to soak in the spirit of Shabbat rest. Calming melodies and readings, along with silent, guided meditations help attendees relax and shake off a busy work week to celebrate Shabbat in the spirit of m'nucha - rest.

Early Kabbalat Shabbat Services  - Every few months B'nai El comes together for a Kabbalat Shabbat service at 6:30 pm, with Oneg Shabbat before the service (begins at 6:00 - come when you can).  This service is casual, come as you are, from wherever you are.  Having an early service allows families and friends to meet at B'nai El and then continue their evening after services. 

Shabbat Dinners 
Every other month the B’nai El community gathers for Shabbat dinner before services. Either a pot-luck or a catered dinner (alternating) is sure to satisfy your stomach and your soul.

Shabbat Morning is a special time at B'nai El. We have a number of different services that occur almost every month:

Check our Calendar to see when your favorite service will occur.

Torah Study and Service: We gather together at B’nai El for a Torah study session of the weekly portion followed by an abbreviated Shabbat Morning service in the contemporary Reform mold. The Study begins at 9:45 and the service at about 11am.

Tot Shabbat:  A fun, engaging service for children 2-8 years old, and the adults who bring them!  Songs and stories are just a part of what makes Tot Shabbat so special at B'nai El.

Other Shabbat Morning Opportunities:  Approximately once every other month we have a chance to try something completely different for our Shabbat Morning Service.  We've done meditation, a walking service at Forest Park, and a drumming service.  Some of these opportunites will repeat, others will be added.  Suggestions are welcome.