Services

We find joy and comfort in Jewish celebration and prayer and we base our Jewish practice on our understanding of Jewish tradition and modern innovation, and as we seek to create new forms and rituals involving story, drama, dance, literature and music. Music is a cornerstone of our worship, which encompasses a wide musical variety. Our prayer is one aspect of the congregation's expression and development, and we seek to renew it regularly through learning and experimentation.  -- Kolot Chayeinu Values Statement

Unless otherwise noted, all services are led by Rabbi Ellen Lippmann and Cantor LIsa B. Segal and take place at the Church of Gethsemane.

For a detailed schedule of upcoming services see the calendar or check out our home page for announcements.

WEEKLY SHABBAT MORNING SERVICES

Shabbat morning services begin at 10:00 am with breakfast ("we eat first"), followed by our main service at 10:30 am. Our service is characterized by beautiful and often lively music and singing, occasional dancing, engaging Torah-telling, and a lot of participation.

A 1:00 PM Torah Study gathering on the lower level follows our kiddush.

Watch our home page & calendar for special programs and Shabbat Cafe lunches.

SHAMAS:  The Jewish tradition of hospitality goes back to Abraham, who hastened to welcome the strangers that appeared at his tent and Rebecca, who gave water to human and animal guests.   So think about volunteering as a Shamas, setting up and welcoming people on Shabbat Morning.  If you're new to Kolot, there's no better way to meet us all and if you're a member, it's a great way to share your experience.  It's a mitzvah!   

Shamas Instructions

KABBALAT SHABBAT

On Friday nights this year we offer a variety of Kabbalat Shabbat services:

Locally Grown Shabbat , 1st Friday of each month, at 6:30 PM.  For those in their 20s & 30s - presents local people · local prayer · local food with a Shiur (short study session), Kabbalat Shabbat, light dinner and wine, co-cordinated by Heath Reynolds and Rachel Brook with guest leaders from around Brooklyn & NYC for prayer and song; 

Kabbalat Shabbat, the 3rd Friday of month at 6:30 pm with Cantor Lisa B. Segal leading an evening of candle-lighting, music and prayer. 

Family Kabbalat Shabbat Service, 4th Friday of each month, at 6:15pm:  Song, prayer, reflection, candle-lighting and kiddush led by Family Services Leader and cantorial student Rachel Brook, with Rabbi Lippmann or Cantor Lisa B. Segal.  Aimed at children ages 5 to 10, and their families, but all ages are welcome.  We use the lovely siddur The Voice of Children,  full of prayers, some written by children, beautiful and engaging art work, and more.

On the 2nd Friday evening of the month, we encourage you to light candles and welcome Shabbat at home, with friends or family.  The rabbi and cantor are available to help you do so if this is a new practice for you.

HIGH HOLYDAYS

HOLIDAYS

Watch our Holidays page, the home page & calendar for dates, times and opportunities.