Kabbalat Shabbat Services

B’nai El offers a variety of Kabbalat Shabbat Services to welcome Shabbat on Friday night through the course of the month. (not all services occur every month)

Our Kabbalat Shabbat Service is a contemporary, modern service, using the new, gender neutral Gates of Prayer for Shabbat and Weekdays. It includes Rabbi Plotkin playing contemporary and classic melodies on guitar along with Bob Meinz on piano, and Dan Brodsky leading us in singing. Generally we read Torah and have an opportunity for learning through either a sermon, discussion or and “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. There is a story or short D'var Torah as we celebrate Shabbat together.

The first Friday of each month at 7pm 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 at the end of a busy work week and 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 6:30pm, with our Oneg Shabbat preceeding the service (begins at 6:00 - come when you can).  This service is an opportunity to be casual.  Come as you are, from wherever you are.  By having an early service, families and friends can meet at B'nai El and continue their evening after services.  This service features a story or brief D'var Torah by Rabbi Plotkin.

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.

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 opportunities will repeat, others will be added.  Suggestions are welcome.