Avodah
Our approach to worship, or Avodah, is rooted in the Reform tradition and enlivened by the words, insights, and music provided by our clergy and lay participants. We hold two lay-led Shabbat morning services yearly, spearheaded by our Religious Practices and Adult Education committees, and have multiple musical groups who, along with Cantor Braun, perform choral, klezmer, and other forms of popular music as part of our services.
Our prayerbook for Shabbat services is Mishkan T’filah: A Reform Siddur, and for High Holy Day services, Mishkan Hanefesh: Machzor for the Days of Awe. While many of our congregants enjoy owning their own copy of Mishkan T’filah, copies are available in the sanctuary for all who worship with us.
Since March 2020, we have been holding services on Zoom, with the Mishkan T'filah made available online by the Central Conference of American Rabbis (CCAR).
Shabbat
Each Friday evening, we hold an Erev Shabbat service beginning at 6:00 or 8:00 pm (see the calendar). During the fall and spring months, our Saturday morning Shabbat services are often led by one of our B'nai Mitzvah students.
Some Friday evening services are themed services which are particularly varied, offering something for everyone. We honor special occasions; invite guests from other faith communities and speakers on timely topics; enjoy a range of musical performances; and enjoy good food together, whether as part of the Oneg or a special dinner.
Below are descriptions of just a few of our most popular themed services.
First Friday Family Services may include participation of students in our religious school and is followed by a Shabbat Dinner with Friends in our Social Hall.
Bim Bam Shabbat offers a short Shabbat experience designed for our youngest members followed by dinner, play, and activities - such as arts and crafts.
Schmoozin' Shabbat offers a variety of pre-service catered meals with a wide selection of beverages including wine, soft drinks, and more.
Pride Shabbat is held every July, coinciding with Rochester's Pride March. We celebrate our LGBTQ community and confirm our commitment to inclusive worship.
Get S'More Shabbat is an annual tradition with a Friday evening outdoor service followed by dinner and making s'mores! Guests are not only welcome but encouraged to come!
High Holy Days
During First Day Rosh Hashanah and again on Yom Kippur, we hold multiple services simultaneously. They include traditional, contemporary (family), teen, and young family services. During High Holidays 5781 (in September 2020), our clergy and volunteer planners adapted these services creatively for an online environment. Click on the image to access each video.
Yom Kippur morning 5781
Yom Kippur morning 5781
Yom Kippur 5781 Neilah
Kol Nidre 5781
Petach Libi (Open My Heart)
Temple Sinai Choir
