Shabbat in the Holy City

L

ast night I attended a Shabbat Service at the Reformed Synagogue, Kol HaNeshama, with a local friend. It was quite obvious from the singing and enthusiasm in a congregation of all ages that they really regarded Shabbat as a day of great joy eagerly awaited throughout the week when they set aside all weekday concerns and devote themselves to higher pursuits.

After singing from the Song of Solomon: “I am my beloved’s, and my beloved is mine, that feedeth among the lilies”; and other rhythmic verses, the female rabbi launched into a very sensuous version of ‘Hallelujah’, which we know better from Lenny Cohen.

The congregation seemed to be very young in age, but I learn that there was a group of Mormon Biblical students from the Brigham Young University, as well as another group from Germany with Moslem students – very ecumenical.

Dinner as guest of Fr David at the St James Vicariate
Dinner as guest of Fr David at the St James Vicariate (Click to enlarge)

Afterwards, we went home to join other friends for the Shabbat meal. A prayer was said over the wine sanctifying the Shabbat, and then another prayer over two loaves of bread, which another broke and distributed with a shake of salt.

The Jewish and Catholic traditions are similar, but different. I’m ashamed to say that it’s taken me 71 years to really start to understand this Jewish tradition.

As the sun sets, Shabbat is about to be over for another week for this family
As the sun sets, Shabbat is about to be over for another week for this family

PHOTOS – Click HERE to see all the photos

5 Responses to Shabbat in the Holy City

  • Christine M
    What great photos.. Having a v interesting time no doubt.. ! Xx c Stay well..!
    Reply
  • Julie, Sydney
    Dear Michael I'm really enjoying your blog on Israel, it's taking me back to1978 and I want to visit it again even Den is finding it fascinating. Back then Bethlehem wasn't a problem, we even stayed in a convent for a few nights, the cleanest place I have ever been in! My memory of Jericho is Very hot! Also, how fascinating having a guide that was Jewish and going to the Synagogue. What a memorable trip.
    Reply
  • Juanita, Tasmania
    FANTASTIC. I love the idea of Holy Land tour and will need something to keep me sane in Tas! Regards Juanita
    Reply
  • Nimi, Delhi
    This must really be a very special holiday ....jerusalem seems to me a very spiritual place charged with high energies
    Reply
  • Anne, Nobby Beach
    I remember Liz Hepburn IBVM arranging such a pascal meal for staff when she was Principal of Mt Carmel school and I was a teacher there. We had wine, bread and bitter greens. Anne
    Reply

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