Congregation Shaarei Tefilah

Dress Code: Most men wear a suit or jacket and tie; all male participants cover their heads with a kippah. Women and girls wear dresses or skirts with sleeved tops; married women typically wear hats. Men and women sit separately in the sanctuary. Service Format: Shabbat morning services begin at 9:00 AM and last at least two and a half hours, conducted entirely in Hebrew. The service includes preliminary prayers, the Verses of Song, the Shema and its blessings, the Amidah (central prayer), Torah reading with multiple aliyot, Haftorah, a d'var Torah (sermon), and concluding prayers, followed by Kiddush in the social hall. Visitor Tips: Arrive by 9:30 AM when the men's section begins to fill; ask someone nearby for help finding your place in the prayer book. Orthodox Jews do not drive on Shabbat; if you prefer not to drive, contact the congregation about Shabbat hospitality. Do not bring money, writing instruments, wallets, or cell phones. Books and quiet toys are appropriate for children not yet ready to participate in the service.