Attending Services

At BZBI, all services are egalitarian. Men, women, and children daven together, and seating in our sanctuaries is not assigned, except in the case of special simchas such as a wedding or a bar or bat mitzvah. All BZBI services are open to members and non-members alike, except those for the High Holy Days. Because of space limitations, admission to Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services is through membership.

Kippot (yarmulke)

Upon entering the sanctuary, all men put on a kippah (headcovering) and keep it on (even during the community Kiddush). Women may cover their heads as well. A woman who is given an honor or an aliyah puts on a headcovering before ascending the bimah (pulpit). Supplies of kippot and other headcoverings can be found at the entrances.

Tallitot

Many adult Jews wear a tallit (prayer shawl) during the morning service. A man who is given an honor or an aliyah puts on a tallit before ascending the bimah (pulpit). If you don’t have your own tallit, you may use one of those found at the entrance. 

Service Customs and Etiquette

There are times when entering the sanctuary or taking or leaving a seat is considered a disturbance to those praying. These times are indicated by the fact that the congregation is standing. One should not disturb a congregant who is praying by asking him or her to let you into or out of a row. Please sit in the back of the sanctuary or at the end of a row until the congregation is seated.

Photography, video, tape recording, and use of any electrical devices are prohibited on Shabbat and holidays at BZBI.  In particular, cell phone and telephone use are prohibited anywhere in the synagogue on Shabbat and holidays.  Please silence all pagers and electronic watches.  Smoking anywhere on the property is prohibited.