In excitment & anticipation of receiving the Torah, our ancestors stayed up late into the night. A midrash teaches that at midnight the Israelites were given a glimpse into the realm of the Holy One! With all that is taking place in Israel, we reflect on the centrality and importance of the land of Israel in Jewish thought and literature.

The service is followed by Tikkun Leyl Shavuot at 9:00 pm, following the custom of studying late into the night. The subject will be: "G-d's Will and Rabbis' Words: Why halachah has to change."

We often hear the words "the Jewish tradition." But what is "the" Jewish tradition? Judaism changes over time--in fact, has to change over time. If there is anything non-traditional, it is the fantasy that Judaism is static. On the night of Shavuot, we will study classic midrashim, medieval philosophers, and modern rabbis in order to understand the issues of authenticity and authority in Jewish law.

During the period of the Temple, our ancestors would bring the first of their ripening crops as a gift to the Sanctuary. For them, it was an expression of appreciation for God's blessing. We can emulate our Israelite ancestors by recognizing our bounty through sharing with those in need.

Evening Ma'ariv Service - 8:30 PM

Another expression of our Bikkurim involves the children born in our congregation since last Shavuot. Parents are invited to bring their newborn to the steps of the bima for a special blessing.

For centuries Jews have engaged in the study of rabbinic texts. As we end Shavuot we join together to hear the words of Sinai echoing across the generations and resonating in the words of our sages of blessed memory. We will focus on the Mishna, a compilation of laws touching on all aspects of life, personal & communal, ritual & real world.

Mincha following Kiddush

Ma'ariv and Havdalah concluding Shavuot - 8:30 PM