Shabbat

Temple Or Olam usually holds two Friday night Shabbat services a month.

On the second Friday of the month is a family service, which focuses on children. Congregants shake maracas and bang tambourines to the joyous songs during Kabbalat Shabbat. It’s not unusual for kids to get up and dance - and bring their parents with them. Religious school students lead many songs and prayers in a supportive, loving environment. Whether or not you have children, you’ll enjoy the energy that Temple Or Olam’s children bring to family services and the warmth that surrounds them.

On the fourth Friday of the month Temple Or Olam holds a more adult-oriented service, although children are more than welcome. This service includes a Torah reading, typically by Dr. Barbara Thiede, but sometimes by members of the congregation, and it also includes an often lively discussion of the Torah portion. Dr. Thiede facilitates the congregation in interpreting, analyzing, and debating points of Torah.

Both services are followed by a pot-luck dessert Oneg Shabbat. The noshing and schmoozing often extends long into the evening, as members enjoy catching up with each other and getting to know guests. Don’t worry about dressing up - unless you want to! Come as you are. We just want you to show up.