So I had a new experience last Friday night: I attended Shabbat prayer services at a synagogue for the first time in my life. Temple Emanu-El, a Reform Jewish synagogue in Dallas, returned to in-person services back in May.
I have always had an interest in Judaism, because Christianity grew out of it and Jesus was a Jew. I have always wanted to attend services at a temple, so I took this opportunity to do so. It was a new and interesting experience.
The service was described as an "Expansive Kabbalat Shabbat," which included the singing of select verses from the six Psalms representing the six weekdays leading up to Shabbat: Psalms 91-96. These were sung mostly in Hebrew. Lyrics were presented on screens hung on each side of the dais in the Stern Chapel: the Hebrew on the right side, transliterations on the left, with English translations on the bottom. The music was beautiful. The cantor played guitar and was accompanied by a pianist, violinist, and drummer.
The service as a whole was very contemplative. There was lots of breathing, checking in with oneself, plenty of silent time for quiet reflection. I plan to visit again in the near future, and look forward to holiday and high holy day observances as well.
So, Shalom for now.
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