Shabbat Services and Programs

Friday Evening Shabbat Services
Join us for our participatory, musical Shabbat services, held every Friday evening at 6:30 p.m. except for the first Friday of each month, an especially child-friendly service that begins at 6 p.m.

Shirat HaLev (“Song of the Heart”)
On the third Friday evening of each month, we gather for a special contemplative, musical celebration of Shabbat featuring seating in the round, percussion accompaniment, and very spirited communal singing of the Shabbat prayers and blessings. Shirat HaLev is a wonderful way to release the stresses of another New York City week, and connect with one’s self and the West End Synagogue community.

Shabbat morning Torah Study led by Rabbi Marc Margolius
Each Saturday morning from 9-10 a.m., Rabbi Margolius facilitates a group exploration of the weekly Torah portion, incorporating traditional rabbinic, Hasidic, and contemporary interpretations, as well as the insights of participants. We seek to discover points of resonance between our lives and the Torah narrative, and lessons which might guide us in our daily lives and inform our efforts to repair the world. All are welcome; no prior background or knowledge required.

Shabbat Morning Services
Shabbat morning services begin each Saturday morning at 10 a.m., following Torah study (see above). They include contemporary English readings and poems, explanations and suggested kavanot (intentions) for aspects of the service, and a sermon and discussion on the weekly Torah portion. Services are followed by a full congregational Kiddush luncheon at 12:30 p.m. for socializing and camaraderie. All are welcome to drop in for all or part of the service or Kiddush luncheon.

HaMatmid Tanakh Shabbat Afternoon Bible Study
On the first and third Shabbat afternoons of each month, West End members meet at 1:30 p.m. to explore the books of the Hebrew Bible (the Tanakh). No prior background is necessary, and all are welcome.

Shabbat Afternoon Meditation and Havdalah Program (new for 2011-12)
On periodic Shabbat afternoons, we offer Jewish mindfulness meditation, followed by havdalah to usher out Shabbat, light refreshments, and a musical program. These programs currently are scheduled for the following Shabbat afternoons: October 15, November 12, December 3, January 7, March 10, April 14, May 12, and June 9.